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 the incidence of autism. Lithium, a naturally occurring element, is commonly used as a psychiatric medication to treat bipolar disorder. The research findings have drawn significant attention among health professionals and the general public alike, as a possible preventive solution for autism is much in demand.
A study conducted by a UCLA Health researcher has found that pregnant women who consume household tap water with high amounts of lithium have a slightly higher chance of their child being diagnosed with autism. This is believed to be the first time naturally occurring lithium in drinking water has been identified as a possible environmental risk factor for autism. Lead author of the study, Beate Ritz, has said that any drinking water contaminants that could affect the developing human brain, “deserve intense scrutiny.” Results of the study show that as lithium levels increase, so does the risk of an autism diagnosis. Compared to the lowest quartile of recorded lithium levels, the second and third quartiles were associated with between a 24-26% higher risk of an autism diagnosis, while the risk rose 46% in the highest quartile. The study was conducted in Denmark, where levels of lithium in the country’s water supply are likely to be in a low to moderate range compared to other countries.
Although some lithium compounds have long been used in the treatment of depression and bipolar disorders, there has been debate over whether it is safe for mothers to consume lithium during pregnancy due to increased evidence that it can be associated with a higher risk of miscarriage and defects in newborns. Despite this, pregnant women who consume lithium for their mental health should not change their treatment without consulting their doctor.
This study was performed using high-quality Danish data and needs to be replicated in other countries to fully understand the scope of the risk that lithium in drinking water may have on autism. However, these results reveal that drinking water contaminants will be a topic for intense scrutiny as emerging sources of lithium in water may become more widespread in the future.
In conclusion, while the association between Lithium levels in drinking water and increased risk of Autism is a subject that requires further research, it is still important for us to be conscious of the quality of water we consume. Water is a basic necessity, but we must ensure that we take care to manage it well to maintain public health. The study serves as a reminder for policymakers, public health officials, and individuals to take into account the potential impacts of environmental pollutants like Lithium levels in drinking water on our well-being. As we move forward, we must remain cautious and proactive in our efforts to ensure safe and clean drinking water for all.
