Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
19:15

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale

Published on: August 25, 2014

Cigarette smoking during pregnancy and hyperactive-distractible preschooler's: a follow-up study

Karen Markussen Linnet1, Carsten Obel, Else Bonde

  • 1Perinatal Epidemiology Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Paediatrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby Sygehus, Denmark. kmlinnet@ki.au.dk

Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|June 7, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Maternal smoking during pregnancy is linked to increased hyperactivity and distractibility in preschool children. This study found a 60% increased risk for children exposed to 10 or more cigarettes daily in utero.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Prenatal Health
  • Pediatric Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Intrauterine exposure to environmental factors can impact child development.
  • Maternal smoking is a known risk factor for various adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between prenatal tobacco smoke exposure and behavioral disorders in preschoolers.
  • To examine symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and aggressive or anxious behaviors.

Main Methods:

  • A follow-up study of 1355 singletons born to Danish mothers.
  • Maternal smoking data collected via questionnaires during pregnancy.
  • Child behavior assessed at approximately 3.5 years using the Preschool Behaviour Questionnaire.

Main Results:

  • Children of mothers smoking 10+ cigarettes daily had a 60% increased risk of hyperactivity/distractibility (OR 1.6).
  • Results remained significant after adjusting for lifestyle, socioeconomic, perinatal, and parental psychiatric factors (OR 1.7).
  • No significant association found between maternal smoking and hostile-aggressive or anxious-fearful behaviors.

Conclusions:

  • Prenatal exposure to tobacco smoke is associated with hyperactive-distractible behavior in preschool children.
  • The findings highlight a specific behavioral risk linked to maternal smoking during gestation.
Abstract

More Related Videos

The Adventures of Fundi Intervention Based on the Cognitive and Emotional Processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Patients05:48

The Adventures of Fundi Intervention Based on the Cognitive and Emotional Processing in Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Patients

Published on: June 12, 2020

Preclinical Model of Prenatal Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure to Assess Its Impact on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes05:13

Preclinical Model of Prenatal Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Exposure to Assess Its Impact on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes

Published on: February 28, 2025

Related Concept Videos

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Stimulants01:29

Stimulants

Stimulants are substances that enhance neural activity and elevate dopamine levels in the brain, leading to their highly addictive nature. These drugs include cocaine, amphetamines, MDMA, caffeine, and nicotine, each with distinct mechanisms of action and varied health implications.
Cocaine can be administered via snorting, injection, or smoking. It primarily functions by blocking the reuptake of dopamine, resulting in a euphoric high characterized by an intense sensation of happiness and...
Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV01:26

Stress Prevention and Stress Management Techniques IV

Stress often leads to unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and overeating, which offer short-term relief but ultimately increase long-term health risks. These behaviors create a cycle that temporarily lowers stress levels but can result in severe long-term health consequences. Breaking these habits is essential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve overall well-being. Three primary changes that support better health include quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake,...