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Marijuana impairs growth in mid-gestation fetuses
1Karolinska Institute, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Psychiatry Section, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Yasmin.hurd@cns.ki.se
Neurotoxicology and Teratology
|March 1, 2005
Summary
Prenatal marijuana exposure may negatively impact fetal growth. This study found reduced foot length and body weight in fetuses exposed to marijuana, even after accounting for other substance use.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Developmental Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Marijuana (Cannabis sativa) is the most frequently used illicit substance among pregnant women.
- Limited data exists on the effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on fetal development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of early maternal marijuana use on mid-gestational fetal growth.
- To assess the impact of prenatal cannabis exposure on specific fetal developmental outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Recruitment of women undergoing voluntary abortions at 17-22 weeks of gestation.
- Collection of maternal drug use and medical histories, supplemented by toxicological assays (maternal urine, fetal meconium).
- Exclusion of subjects with documented cocaine and opiate use; adjustment for maternal alcohol and cigarette consumption.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in overall growth rates between marijuana-exposed (n=44) and non-exposed (n=95) fetuses.
- A statistically significant reduction in fetal foot length (0.08 cm) and body weight (14.53 g) in marijuana-exposed fetuses.
- A negative correlation observed between fetal foot length and the quantity/frequency of maternal marijuana use.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal marijuana exposure is associated with impaired mid-gestational fetal growth.
- Findings suggest a detrimental effect on fetal development, independent of other substance use.
- Highlights the need for further research into the long-term consequences of prenatal cannabis exposure.