Environmental Contaminants and Autism

Contemporary Science Issues and Innovations July 23, 2013 Belmont Media Center

Marc Weisskopf, Ph.D., ScD., Associate Professor of Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health. Professor Weisskopf investigates the epidemiology of a range of neurological disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, and autism. He focuses on the effects of exposures to environmental toxicants in the environment.

Environmental epidemiology is among the most exciting fields in modern science, in part because of the great range of neuro-cognitive impairments the research covers, the possibility of preventive efforts to protect neurological function, as well as understanding the etiology of these conditions with an eye toward cures. Dr. Weisskopf’s work is also particularly important because of the need to understand how environmental contaminants of many sorts are affecting the brain across generations. Meet Marc Weisskopf, PhD, ScD

Some background resources

Fine Particulate Air Pollution Linked with Increased Autism Risk

US Kids Born in Polluted Areas More Likely to Have Autism

Higher Levels of Several Toxic Metals Found in Children With Autism

Ten Toxic Chemicals Suspected to Cause Autism and Learning Disabilities

Toxins All Around Us