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Prenatal Cannabis Exposure and Executive Function and Aggressive Behavior at Age 5 Years
Sarah A Keim1,2,3, Peter Fried4, Keith Owen Yeates5
1Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio.
JAMA Pediatrics
|October 28, 2024
Summary
Prenatal cannabis exposure was linked to lower attention and inhibitory control in 5-year-olds. This study highlights potential long-term impacts on executive function and behavior in children exposed to cannabis during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cannabis use during pregnancy is a growing concern in the US.
- Prenatal cannabis exposure may impact child development and behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate the association between prenatal cannabis exposure and executive function and aggressive behavior at age 5.
- To inform clinical recommendations regarding cannabis use during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study involving 250 children followed from birth to age 5.
- Cannabis exposure assessed via urine toxicology, maternal self-report, and medical records.
- Executive function and aggressive behavior measured using multimodal assessments by masked staff.
Main Results:
- Children exposed prenatally to cannabis showed approximately 0.4 SDs lower scores in attention and inhibitory control.
- Exposed children also demonstrated poorer planning abilities and increased aggression.
- No significant differences were observed in caregiver ratings or other executive function assessments.
Conclusions:
- Prenatal cannabis exposure is associated with specific deficits in executive function and behavior in 5-year-old children.
- These findings suggest potential long-term consequences for academic success and adaptive functioning.
- Results may guide the refinement of clinical guidance for pregnant individuals using cannabis.
