Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely used flame retardant compounds that are persistent and bioaccumulative. Animal studies suggest that prenatal PBDE exposure may result in adverse neurodevelopmental effects. Herbstman et al. (p. 712) initiated a longitudinal cohort following the World Trade Center attack on 11 September 2001 to evaluate associations between concentrations of individual PBDE congeners and neurodevelopmental indices. Outcomes were evaluated in approximately 100 children with PBDE concentrations measured in cord blood samples. After adjustment for potential confounders, higher concentrations of BDEs 47, 99, or 100 were associated with lower scores on tests of mental and physical development at 12–48 and 72 months. The authors conclude that developmental  exposure to flame retardants following the World Trade Center disaster was associated with altered neurodevelopment of children up to 72 months of age.

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