Wildfire Smoke During Pregnancy Linked to Autism in Children
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/6/2026
Pregnant women exposed to wildfire smoke had children with higher rates of autism spectrum disorder. Nearly two decades of California birth data confirm the link.
What the Study Found
A 2026 study analyzed California births from 2001 to 2019 and found that prenatal exposure to wildfire-related PM2.5 was associated with increased autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk in children. The more wildfire smoke exposure during pregnancy, the higher the risk.
Wildfire seasons are getting longer and more intense. More pregnant women are being exposed. And the developing fetal brain is extremely sensitive to the toxic particles in smoke.
What You Can Do
During wildfire season, stay indoors. Use HEPA air purifiers. Wear N95 masks outdoors. Monitor air quality indexes. If pregnant, take extra precautions during smoke events.
Browse our non-toxic baby products for cleaner air options.
Also see glass food storage for safer alternatives.