Exposure to environmental toxins can cause problems to both physical and mental health. Pollutants of main public health interest involve organic and elemental carbons, metals such as lead, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and perchloroethylene commonly used in dry cleaning. Being born or raised in an urban environment has been related to a higher incidence of schizophrenia, and air pollution could be one of the explanatory factors.

What is the evidence for environmental toxins as a risk factor for schizophrenia?

Moderate to low quality evidence suggests exposure to high levels of air pollution may be associated with increased risk for schizophrenia. Prenatal and early childhood exposure to perchloroethylene may also be associated with increased risk of schizophrenia.

April 2022

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