Air pollution and autism research reveals striking statistical links that demand urgent attention from parents and policymakers. Studies show that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) increases by 64% with exposure to 10 micrograms of PM2.5 per cubic metre of air during early childhood, and by 31% during prenatal periods. Even more concerning, children of mothers living near freeways and traffic-related pollution during the third trimester of pregnancy are twice as likely to develop ASD. These findings suggest that air quality during critical developmental periods may significantly influence neurodevelopmental outcomes. Explore the evidence connecting environmental pollution to autism risk and its implications for prenatal and early childhood care.