Commonly-Used Insecticides Could Raise Autism Risk: Study

Could Insecticides Be Linked to Autism?

Recent research has uncovered a potential link between exposure to pyrethroids, a class of widely used insecticides, and an increased risk of autism and other developmental disorders. Even low-level exposure to pyrethroids, which are found in both industrial and consumer products, could have harmful effects on the brain and nervous system.

What Are Pyrethroids?

Pyrethroids are synthetic insecticides that are similar to the natural pesticide pyrethrum, which is produced by chrysanthemum flowers. They are commonly used in household insecticides, shampoos, and pet sprays, as well as in mosquito repellants and lice treatments. Pyrethroids are also used in mosquito control as an ultra-low volume spray, which releases tiny aerosol droplets into the air to kill mosquitoes on contact.

Despite being deemed safe by federal regulators when used in line with label directions, pyrethroids have been linked to a range of neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism. In fact, regions with high levels of pesticide use have documented higher rates of these disorders.

The Study

A recent study published in the journal PNA Nexus looked at the effects of low-level exposure to pyrethroids on female mice and their offspring. The researchers found that even small doses of the insecticide deltamethrin, which were well below the benchmark dose used for regulatory guidance, resulted in increased hyperactivity, repetitive behaviors, and less vocalization in the offspring. These symptoms are similar to those seen in human patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.

The offspring also experienced disruptions in their dopamine system, which plays a key role in reward and movement regulation in the brain. A dysfunction in the dopamine system has been implicated in multiple diseases of the nervous system.

What Does This Mean for Humans?

While this study was conducted on mice, the findings suggest that even low-level exposure to pyrethroids could have harmful effects on the developing brain and nervous system. Given the rising rates of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders in children across the United States, it is crucial that we continue to evaluate the safety of widely used insecticides like pyrethroids.

It is also worth noting that there is some promising research into the use of an epilepsy drug called lamotrigine to alleviate behavioral issues associated with autism. While more research is needed, this could be a potential treatment option for those with autism.