Plastic chemical linked to autism and ADHD in Australian study
Australian researchers found a potential biological link between a common plastic additive called DEHP and autism or ADHD symptoms in young children.
Researchers at the Florey Brain Research Centre in Melbourne tested mothers' umbilical cords during pregnancy and found DEHP, a chemical added to plastic to make it flexible. After birth, they used AI to examine children's DNA.
High DEHP exposure was linked to gene changes tied to autism and ADHD symptoms in children aged 2 and 4. DEHP is found in household items like rain gear, garden hoses and shower curtains.
It is already banned in children's toys with more than 1 per cent of the chemical. Earlier research showed correlation between high DEHP and these conditions.
This study suggests a biological reason why. The researchers say the chemical is more likely to leak when plastic is heated or touches water, such as in irrigation systems.
The children are still too young to draw firm conclusions, but the research will continue as they grow.
- DEHP (Di-2-Ethylhexyl phthalate)
- Chemical tested
- Florey Brain Research Centre, Melbourne
- Research centre
- 2 and 4
- Ages of children studied
- More than 1 per cent
- DEHP ban in toys
Why it mattersThe study suggests a biological link between a common plastic additive and autism and ADHD in young children.
AustraliaAustralian families exposed to DEHP in common household plastics may want to know the potential health implications, particularly during pregnancy.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 5 d ago
