Research reveals prenatal BPA exposure linked to autism risk in boys

Recent research indicates a connection between high bisphenol A (BPA) exposure in pregnant women and an increased risk of autism in their sons. BPA appears to interfere with fetal brain development by disrupting hormonal pathways, specifically by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme needed to convert testosterone into neuroestrogen.

Sons born to mothers with high BPA levels in late pregnancy were found to be 3.5 times more likely to exhibit autism symptoms by age 2 and 6 times more likely to be diagnosed with autism by age 11. Given BPA's widespread presence in food packaging, air, and cosmetics, addressing its health impacts is crucial. This research highlights the need for strategies to limit BPA exposure during pregnancy to mitigate autism risk. Understanding BPA's effects on fetal brain development could lead to better guidelines for reducing exposure.