TASC Board Member Featured on WNYC

Dr. Frederica Perera, a member of TASC's Board of Directors and Director of the Columbia Center for Children's Environmental Health, was interviewed on WNYC regarding the recently released Prenatal Airborne Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Exposure and Child IQ at Age 5 Years, published in the latest issue of Pediatrics.

The study shows that prenatal exposure to environmental pollutants known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can adversely affect a child's intelligence quotient or IQ. PAHs are chemicals released into the air from the burning of coal, diesel, oil and gas, or other organic substances such as tobacco. They are widespread in urban environments and throughout the world.

This is the first study to report an association between PAH exposure and IQ, which is an important predictor of future academic performance. Fortunately, airborne PAH concentrations can be reduced through currently available controls, alternative energy sources and policy interventions.

• Article on Pediatrics Web site
• TASC's Board of Directors