As parents, our natural instinct is to protect our children. We focus on their nutrition, their education, and creating safe spaces for them to explore and grow. But there’s a silent threat lurking that we can’t always see or control: industrial chemicals. These substances, often hidden in everyday products, are quietly affecting our children’s brains, and the impact is far-reaching.

In their 2014 article in The Lancet Neurology, researchers Philippe Grandjean and Philip Landrigan shed light on this growing concern: chemicals in our environment are contributing to a rise in developmental disorders like ADHD, autism, and learning disabilities (Grandjean & Landrigan, 2014).

A Growing Concern: The Surge in Neurodevelopmental Disorders

It’s no secret that neurodevelopmental disorders are becoming more common, and it’s not just a result of better diagnosis. These conditions are increasingly linked to environmental factors, particularly exposure to toxic chemicals. What’s most troubling is that many of these chemicals have been around for decades, and their long-term effects are only just starting to come to light (Grandjean & Landrigan, 2014).

The Chemicals at the Core of the Issue

Since a 2006 review, the list of chemicals known to harm brain development has doubled. New substances added to this list include:

• Manganese as it’s linked to lowered IQ in children.
• Fluoride is showing evidence of cognitive impairments.
• Chlorpyrifos & DDT are pesticides that interfere with brain function.
• PBDEs are flame retardants that are harmful to brain development.
• Tetrachloroethylene is a chemical used in dry cleaning that has neurotoxic effects.

These chemicals are found in everyday items, from pesticides on our food to furniture and even the air we breathe (Grandjean & Landrigan, 2014). The fact that they’re so pervasive makes the situation even more concerning.

Why Are Our Children More Vulnerable?

The developing brain is like a sponge, absorbing everything in its environment. During pregnancy and early childhood, the brain is highly sensitive to chemical exposure. Since the blood-brain barrier isn’t fully formed, these toxins can easily cross into the brain, causing lasting damage (Grandjean & Landrigan, 2014).

The impact of early exposure can be severe. Children who face toxic chemical exposure may experience a permanent decline in IQ, attention disorders, and an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases later in life. This is not just a health issue; it’s a future issue.

The True Cost of Developmental Toxicity

Beyond the personal toll on families, the economic cost of neurodevelopmental disorders is staggering. Grandjean and Landrigan estimate that the loss of IQ points in children due to chemical exposure could result in billions of dollars in lost productivity over time (Grandjean & Landrigan, 2014). In other words, the long-term costs of inaction are not just affecting children’s futures, they’re affecting our economies.

The Change We Need to See

The article is a call to action. Grandjean and Landrigan suggest several essential steps to protect our children from toxic chemicals:

• Mandatory testing of chemicals for neurodevelopmental effects before they are released into the market.
• The creation of an international clearinghouse to pool research and policy efforts, allowing for a more coordinated approach to chemical regulation.
• A shift toward a precautionary principle that prioritizes children’s health over industrial convenience.

These changes will take time, but they’re essential if we want to protect the future of our children.

How Parents Can Take Action Now

While we wait for systemic changes to take effect, there are steps we can take as parents to reduce our children’s exposure to harmful chemicals:

• Choose organic foods whenever possible to limit pesticide exposure.
• Avoid plastics containing BPA and other harmful chemicals.
• Opt for natural cleaning products and be cautious of flame-retardant treated furniture.
• Invest in a water filter to reduce contaminants like lead and fluoride in drinking water.

These small changes can make a big difference in reducing your child’s exposure to harmful chemicals. Grandjean and Landrigan’s article is a powerful reminder that we cannot take our children’s health for granted. The risks posed by toxic chemicals are real, and the impact on brain development is lasting.

As parents, we have the responsibility to protect our children and advocate for the changes necessary to ensure their health and safety. By staying informed and making mindful choices, we can contribute to a future where our children can thrive without the weight of invisible toxins threatening their development.

Reference:

Grandjean P, Landrigan PJ. (2014). Neurobehavioural effects of developmental toxicity. The Lancet Neurology, 13(3), 330–338. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(13)70278-3