Exposure To Flame Retardants During Pregnancy Can Lead To Cognitive Problems In Children

Smoke, chemical fumes, strong paint odors, are not the only thing that pregnant women should be wary of. In a new research conducted at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, pregnant women must avoid exposure to flame retardants and to substances that are commonly utilized for their stain repellant properties.

The study has revealed that polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), chemicals found in flame retardants and those with stain repelling properties respectively, can cause long term negative effects on children's behavior. The study was conducted on 256 mothers who were closely monitored by the researchers in terms of their day-to-day exposure to these types of chemicals.

Science Daily outlined the process involved in the said study. The researchers measured the presence of these chemicals on the 256 women. After giving birth, the behavioral patterns of their children were monitored by giving them questionnaires, specifically targeting areas related to their child's working memory, focus, task delegation and control of emotions.

Dr. Ann Vuong, one of the researchers said, "We found that mothers who had higher PBDE levels had children who had higher or more behavior regulation problems." With regards to the PFASs, she said, "We found that higher PFAS exposure during pregnancy was associated with emotional regulation problems, behavior regulation problems, as well as metacognition problems in children."

As per the report in WCPO, sources of PBDEs include electronics, upholstery, polyurethane phones and textile. These chemicals are also known to be present in the environment. As for PFASs, they are present in non-stick cookware, cleaning products, and also in fast-food wraps.

Due to the pervading presence of these chemicals, Vuong advised that people must constantly wash their hands, most especially pregnant women. Body fats easily store these chemicals, and they are known to stay for a decade. It is therefore best to constantly clean home surfaces and to vacuum carpets.

According to Vuong, "That is a big indication that PBDEs are a problem in neurodevelopment, and we should take measures to alleviate the burden of exposure." Taking precaution at the earliest can do a lot in minimizing the effects of these chemicals in children.