Algae toxins linked to brain diseases found in Florida

An innovative field study in Southwest Florida has identified several neurotoxins in the state’s air and water. The three forms of BMAA – beta-Methylamino-L-alanine – are associated with brain diseases.

The study conducted by Calusa Waterkeeper volunteers and analysed by Wyoming’s Brain Chemistry Labs identified two forms of BMAA in every sample from 945 completed over five months.

Paul Cox, executive director of Brain Chemistry Labs, explains, “Are the toxins there? Yes. Are they being airborne? Yes. Are they bad news? Yes,” said Cox. “I’m sorry we don’t have firmer answers (but) citizens are really concerned about this – correctly concerned.”