Is Perchlorate Exposure in Water Related to Autism Prevalence? 

Research suggests that perchlorate and autism may be linked, with exposure to perchlorate in drinking water potentially increasing autism prevalence. Perchlorate and autism are a growing concern because perchlorate, used in rocket fuel, fireworks, and some fertilisers, often contaminates public supplies through drinking water pollution. Its known role in thyroid disruption raises important questions about its impact on child neurodevelopment. 

Perchlorate and autism are connected through perchlorate’s ability to interfere with iodine uptake in the thyroid gland. Since thyroid hormones are essential for brain development, thyroid disruption during pregnancy or early childhood may contribute to autism-related behaviours and developmental delays. 

How Does Perchlorate Exposure Affect Autism Risk? 

Understanding how perchlorate and autism are related is key to evaluating environmental health risks. Here’s how thyroid disruption and drinking water contamination may influence autism prevalence: 

Prenatal Exposure:  

Exposure to perchlorate during pregnancy can interfere with thyroid hormone production, affecting foetal brain development. This thyroid disruption may increase the risk of autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions. 

Childhood Exposure:  

Children exposed to perchlorate and autism risk factors through drinking water contamination may experience long-term difficulties with learning, communication, and behaviour. Reducing exposure to perchlorate in water supplies is vital for lowering these risks. 

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how perchlorate and autism may affect your child’s development and explore strategies to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Exposure to Toxins or Pollutants.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.