Higher levels of naturally occurring lithium in household tap water is linked to a modest increase in the risk of children developing autism, according to a study conducted by UCLA Health. Some lithium compounds are used as treatments for depression and bipolar disorders owing to their mood-stabilising effects, however research has increasingly associated its use during pregnancy with higher rates of miscarriage and cardiac anomalies or defects. Environmental lithium levels could also rise because of the disposal of lithium batteries in landfill sites.
The prevalence of autism has been on a rise in recent years, with one in 68 children in the US diagnosed with the disorder. While genetics is the main contributor to autism, environmental factors have been also identified as potential risk factors. A new study suggests a link between lithium levels in drinking water and … Read more
