The Association between Exposure to Environmental Toxicants and Childhood Autism: A Mini Review
Sarah Bura-Dinu, Anthonet Ezejiofor, Chinemerem ElekeBackground: Autism spectrum disorder is a condition of interrupted neuronal development marked by limitations in communication, social behavior, and tenacity to repetitions. This mini review examined evidence published between 1961-2023 to determine the association between autism and heavy metal exposure. Methods: The PubMed and EBSCO essentials electronic databases were searched for studies available in the English language only. Systematic reviews and Animal studies were excluded. Results: Out of 9,431 initial database hits, seven (7) studies were included in the review. The data synthesis revealed no significant association between Autism and Heavy metals exposure in 67% (Arsenic and Lead), 75% (Manganese), 80% (Mercury and Cadmium), and 100% (Nickle) of the reviewed studies. Furthermore, there was no significant association between autism and sea-fish consumption status in 100% of reviewed studies. Conclusion: There is no consistent evidence to suggest an association between autism and heavy metals exposure or sea-fish consumption status. More elaborate umbrella reviews are needed to confirm this finding.