CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking: Developmental Disabilities and the Environment
In the U.S., about 1 in 6 children have a developmental disability.
People with developmental disabilities have problems with major life activities such as language, movement, learning, self-help, and living by themselves. These disabilities can begin anytime during development up to age 22. Developmental disabilities usually last throughout a person’s lifetime.
SOME CAUSES OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES INCLUDE:
- genetics or chromosomal abnormalities,
- maternal conditions before and during pregnancy, or
- childhood exposures to
- certain foods or drinks,
- hazardous substances,
- infections,
- physical trauma, or
- stress.
Environmental contaminants can be especially harmful to the brains of babies and small children because they may affect their developing central nervous system.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
- Avoid workplace hazards if you are pregnant.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol if you are pregnant.
- Learn about safe fish eating recommendations for women who might become pregnant, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children.
- Remove or prevent contact with household sources of lead, such as lead based paint and lead contaminated dust.
- Make sure your child gets all the regular childhood vaccines.
- Keep your child away from high noise levels, such as very loud toys.
LEARN MORE!
Visit CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking Network to learn more about carbon monoxide poisoning
www.cdc.gov/ephtracking
www.cdc.gov/ncbddd
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Page last reviewed: October 11, 2019
Content source: National Center for Environmental Health