WASHINGTON, April 2 (UPI) -- U.S. and Swedish scientists are investigating a possible link between autism and homes with vinyl floors.

A study of Swedish children suggests phtalates emitted from the floors could put children at a higher risk of developing the condition, Environmental Health News reported Wednesday.

The researchers said they found four environmental factors associated with autism -- vinyl flooring, maternal smoking, family financial difficulties and poor ventilation. Infants or toddlers who lived in bedrooms with vinyl floors were twice as likely to have autism five years later than those with wood or linoleum flooring, the report said.

Scientists warned the findings, published in the journal Neurotoxicology, are far from conclusive. They recommend a larger study to confirm or refute the possible link.

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