Toxin Exposure
Being exposed to some harmful substances can increase the risk of developing schizophrenia. This is especially true during fetal development. Lead and alcohol are two major risk factors. Pregnant women who consume alcoholic drinks excessively can affect their babies. Also, when they are exposed to lead, it can considerably affect the risk, especially psychotic features. Lead is commonly found in children’s toys, tap water, paint, or gasoline. Over the past decades, many measures have been taken to eliminate lead from common items in the household. However, keep in mind that it still exists in the surrounding environment. Even when your house has been painted with lead products a few decades ago, it can still release the chemical. [4]
