While fetal and child brain development was the study's focus, they also point to evidence that chemical toxins may contribute to neurological disorders occurring in adults. Some of those toxins may have been present since childhood.
"Other harmful consequences from lead exposure include shortened attention spans, slowed motor coordination, and heightened aggressiveness, which can lead to problems in school and diminished economic productivity as an adult. And the consequences of childhood neurotoxicant exposure later in life may include increased risk of Parkinson's disease and other neurogenerative diseases," says Philip J. Landrigan, Professor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.
If you would like to learn more about toxins and environmental factors that may contribute to causing Parkinson's, refer to these blogs:
World Parkinson Congress Presenter Targets Toxins
Mayo Clinic Study Finds Link Between Farm Pesticides and PD
You can also explore the National Institute of Health's Collaborative Centers for Parkinson's Disease Environmental Research Web site.