Yes, you read that right. A study from scientists at Cornell University has raised the possibility that there might be a link between high levels of rainfall and autism. The study was based on prevalence of autism rates in California, Oregon and Washington between 1987 and 1999, which were calculated with daily precipitation reports from the National Climatic Data Center. Although very preliminary, the results showed that there might be a correlation.
Explanations? Rainfall may be associated with more indoor activities that affect behavioral and cognitive development and time spent indoors may also expose children to more dangerous chemicals found in the household. Decreased exposure to sunshine, which helps the body produce vitamin D, may also be a factor. The scientists even said that the rainfall itself may be transporting chemicals from the upper atmosphere. Go figure. To read the entire article, click here.
