Scientists Link a Common Chemical in Plastics to Autism and ADHD in Children

Suffering with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention‑deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a child is difficult enough. Now, scientists tell us that those who suffer from ASD and ADHD also face higher vulnerability to common plastic pollutants.

A recent study found that their bodies detoxify bisphenol A (BPA) less efficiently than neurotypical peers, increasing the time their tissues are exposed to this chemical.

Dr. T. Peter Stein of Rowan‑Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine led the study. Researchers measured urine glucuronidation, the liver process that adds a sugar molecule to BPA so it can be excreted.

Children with ASD and ADHD had reduced BPA detoxification efficiency compared to the control group.

BPA glucuronidation was about 11% lower in the ASD group and 17% lower in those with ADHD, while differences in phthalate DEHP detoxification followed the same trend but were not statistically significant.