A recent study from Harvard School of Public Health and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai shows that toxic chemicals may be triggering the recent increases in neurodevelopmental disabilities among children including dyslexia.
The study gives information on newly recognized developmental neurotoxicants including manganese, fluoride, chlorpyrifos and DDT (pesticides), tetrachloroethylene (a solvent), and the polybrominated diphenyl ethers (flame retardants). The study specifically outlines possible links between these neurotoxicants and negative health effects on children. For example, manganese is associated with diminished intellectual function and impaired motor skills, solvents are linked to hyperactivity and aggressive behavior, and certain types of pesticides may cause cognitive delays.
The researchers also forecast that many more chemicals besides those identified in the study contribute to neurobehavioral deficits. The authors call for a more controlled use of these substances to protect children’s brain development worldwide. They also urge for mandatory testing of industrial chemicals and the formation of an international clearinghouse to evaluate chemicals for potential developmental neurotoxicity.