More than 150 million mental health diagnoses may be tied to leaded gasoline [Video]

(WXYZ) — A new study revealed that leaded gasoline exposure may have contributed to millions of mental health cases in the U.S.

Researchers, whose findings were published in The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, estimate that Generation X was most impacted.

If you’ve struggled with mental health issues, this study might offer some insight into why.

Now, starting in the 1920s, cars ran on gasoline that contained lead to help engine performance. Leaded gas wasn’t fully banned until 1996. So, anyone born before then could be at risk of harmful effects.

For the study, the researchers looked at data on lead levels in kids, how leaded gasoline was used and trends in mental health conditions. Here’s what they found: roughly 151 million mental health diagnoses may be attributed to lead exposure.

So, how does lead impact the body? Lead is a toxic metal that harms nearly every organ, especially …