New Study Finds Chemicals Linked To Autism Found in Crib Mattresses
A new study has found that chemicals linked to autism are present in crib mattresses.
Are Chemicals In Mattresses Causing Autism?
A new study has found that chemicals linked to autism are present in crib mattresses. The study, which was published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, found that crib mattresses contained high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and that these VOCs were associated with an increased risk of autism.
The study was conducted by a team of researchers from the University of California, Irvine, and the University of California, Riverside.
The researchers analyzed samples of foam from 20 new and used crib mattresses for VOCs. They found that all of the mattresses contained VOCs, and that the levels of these chemicals were higher in the used mattresses.
The researchers then conducted a series of experiments to determine whether exposure to these chemicals could be linked to an increased risk of autism.
They exposed pregnant mice to the VOCs found in the crib mattresses, and then monitored the behavior of their offspring.
They found that the mice exposed to the VOCs were more likely to exhibit behaviors associated with autism, such as repetitive behavior and decreased social interaction.
While the study only involved mice, the researchers believe that the findings have implications for human health. They note that previous studies have found that exposure to VOCs during pregnancy can be linked to an increased risk of autism in children.
The chemicals found in the crib mattresses are known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs).
These chemicals are used as flame retardants in many consumer products, including crib mattresses. While PBDEs have been phased out of use in the United States and many other countries, they can still be found in older products.
The researchers note that the findings of their study suggest that parents should be cautious when choosing crib mattresses for their children. They suggest looking for mattresses that are free of PBDEs and other chemicals known to be linked to autism.
What chemicals in mattresses are linked to autism?
The chemicals in crib mattresses that are linked to autism are polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). These chemicals have been used as flame retardants in many consumer products, including crib mattresses.
PBDEs have been found to persist in the environment and accumulate in human tissues, where they can act as endocrine disruptors and neurotoxins.
Studies have shown that exposure to PBDEs during pregnancy can be linked to an increased risk of autism and other developmental disorders. While PBDEs have been phased out of use in many countries, they can still be found in older products, including some crib mattresses.
If you're interested in learning more about the potential causes of autism, we recommend reading this guide by SupportiveCareABA.
Which mattresses don't have toxic chemicals that cause autism?
There are several types of mattresses that do not contain toxic chemicals linked to autism. One option is to choose a mattress made from natural materials, such as organic cotton or wool. These materials are not treated with flame retardants and other chemicals that can be harmful to human health.
Another option is to choose a mattress that has been certified by third-party organizations, such as Greenguard or Oeko-Tex.
These organizations test products for the presence of harmful chemicals and only certify products that meet strict standards.
It's important to note that while choosing a non-toxic mattress can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, it's only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to preventing autism and other developmental disorders.
Pregnant women should also avoid exposure to other environmental toxins, such as air pollution and pesticides, and follow a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Should I throw away my old mattress?
If you have an old crib mattress that contains PBDEs, it's a good idea to replace it with a new, non-toxic mattress. While the risk of exposure to these chemicals may be small, every effort to reduce exposure can help protect your child's health.
When disposing of an old crib mattress, it's important to do so responsibly. Many municipalities have special programs for disposing of bulky items like mattresses.
These programs may involve curbside pickup or drop-off at a designated facility.
If there are no local programs available, you can contact a private company that specializes in mattress disposal. These companies will often pick up the mattress from your home and ensure that it is disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner.
By replacing your old crib mattress with a non-toxic alternative and disposing of the old one responsibly, you can take steps to protect your child's health and reduce your impact on the environment.
Which studies show that chemicals in mattresses can cause autism in humans?
Several studies have found that exposure to chemicals in mattresses, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), can be linked to an increased risk of autism in humans.
One study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that children with higher levels of PBDEs in their blood had an increased risk of developing autism spectrum disorder.
Another study published in the journal Molecular Autism found a correlation between prenatal exposure to PBDEs and an increased risk of autism in children.
These findings suggest that exposure to chemicals in crib mattresses should be taken seriously by parents and healthcare professionals alike.
Summary
In conclusion, the new study provides further evidence of the link between exposure to chemicals during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism. While further research is needed to confirm these findings, the study suggests that parents should be careful when choosing crib mattresses for their children.
By choosing mattresses that are free of PBDEs and other harmful chemicals, parents can help reduce their children's exposure to these substances and potentially lower their risk of autism.
References
- https://medicalxpress.com/news/2014-04-crib-mattresses-emit-potentially-chemicals.html
- https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-11390811/Toxic-forever-chemicals-childrens-clothes-bedding.html
- https://cockrell.utexas.edu/news/archive/7776-crib-mattresses-emissions
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.estlett.5b00039