A naturally occurring metal often found in drinking water may be a risk factor for autism spectrum disorder. Researchers say for the first time they've identified a possible environmental link between lithium and autism, which affects one in 100 children worldwide. The researchers measured lithium levels in more than 150 public water systems in Denmark and then determined where higher prenatal exposure to the metal occurred.
After cross-referencing the findings with data from a psychiatric registry, the results showed women whose household tap water contained the highest levels of lithium were 46% more likely to have a child diagnosed with autism. "The lead author warns that in the future, lithium and water may become more widespread because of lithium battery use and disposal in landfills, with the potential for groundwater contamination."
She says while this study is based on high-quality Danish data, the results need to be replicated in other areas of the world. Lithium has previously been linked to a higher risk of miscarriage and heart defects in newborns.
