Leaded Gas Exposure Linked to Mental Health Risks for Gen X

A study links childhood exposure to leaded gasoline to 151 million excess cases of mental illness in the U.S., particularly affecting those born between 1966 and 1986. The research suggests that lead exposure from car exhaust has significantly contributed to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Although the study establishes an association rather than causation, it highlights the long-term mental health impacts of lead exposure, which was prevalent before leaded gasoline was banned in 1996. The findings underscore the ongoing risks of lead exposure from other sources like water pipes and old paint.