A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry has revealed that leaded gasoline exposure caused over 150 million cases of mental health disorders in the U.S. over the last 75 years. The research analyzed childhood lead exposure from 1940 to 2015, uncovering significant long-term effects on mental health and behavior.
The study linked lead exposure to heightened risks of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and reduced impulse control. Those born between 1966 and 1986, particularly during the late 1960s, were disproportionately affected as this period marked the peak of leaded gasoline use.
Co-author Aaron Reuben emphasized the importance of prevention. “Removing lead from the environment has benefits that far exceed earlier expectations,” Reuben said. However, he cautioned that lead exposure still poses risks through contaminated soil, outdated water pipes, and imported toys.
Leaded gasoline was banned in 1996, but the CDC continues to stress that no level of lead exposure is safe. Even small amounts can damage the brain, nervous system, and development, particularly in young children.
The study relied on previous research, including a 2019 study from New Zealand that followed children exposed to lead and tracked its effects on their mental health. Combining this with U.S. data allowed researchers to estimate the overall impact of leaded gasoline on the population.
Reuben urged continued efforts to eliminate lead exposure. “We’ve made significant progress, but there’s still more to do,” he said. The study underscores the long-lasting consequences of lead exposure and the need for proactive measures to protect public health.
