Thousands of British children could be suffering brain disorders such as autism and cerebral palsy because of exposure to common chemicals, scientists have revealed.

They fear that chemicals in everything from food and drinking water to plastics are triggering a "silent pandemic".

US and Danish researchers want curbs on these pollutants to protect children and unborn babies until the effects are fully understood, though they admit there is no absolute evidence of a link. Dr Philipe Grandjean, of Southern Denmark university, said "The vulnerability of the human nervous system and its special susceptibility during early development suggest that protection of the developing brain should be a paramount goal of public health protection."

One in six children has a developmental disability and it is well known that pollutants such as lead can cause damage to the brains of unborn babies and young children.

In the online version of the medical magazine The Lancet, the scientists say they have identified 202 industrial chemicals with the potential to damage the brain. More than 1,000 chemicals are also likely to be harmful to us.

"Only a few substances, such as lead and mercury, are controlled with the purpose of protecting children" said Dr Grandjean.


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