Persistent Alterations of Brain and Behavior in Children With Low Prenatal Alcohol Exposure

Heavy prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) is associated with alterations in behavior and cognitive and brain development. However, the effects of low levels of PAE on the brain and behavior remain unclear. In the current study, we aimed to investigate longitudinal changes in the brain and behavior in children with low levels of PAE compared with well-matched unexposed children.

Children (n = 108, mean [SD] = 9.52 [0.50] years at baseline) with PAE (0.97 ± 0.90 drinks/wk) and control children (n = 108, 9.52 [0.50] years at baseline) matched on socioeconomic status were selected from the ABCD (Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development) Study and were followed over 4 years with magnetic resonance imaging and Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) scores. No children had adverse exposures to other substances.

Compared with unexposed children, children with low levels of PAE had persistently higher CBCL scores (worse behavior) and higher intracranial volumes over time.

Our results provide further evidence of alterations in the brain and behavior associated with low levels of PAE across early adolescence, highlighting the importance of prevention and early intervention even with low levels of PAE.