30 Oct JAMA Peds Study Finds Prenatal Exposure to Cannabis Linked to Aggressive Behavior and Decreased Executive Function in Children

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Dr. Keim

Sarah Keim, PhD
Associate Professor, Epidemiology
College of Public Health
The Ohio State University

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?

Response: Marijuana is the illicit substance most commonly used during pregnancy, and use is increasing. Some evidence suggests that marijuana is associated with deficits in executive function and increased delinquent behavior in school-age children and adolescents, with potential downstream impacts on achievement and social functioning.

However, this evidence comes largely from only 2 studies several decades old. Today cannabis is more than 10 times more potent than it was several decades ago.

MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings?

Response:  In this study, prenatal cannabis exposure was associated in early childhood with poorer thinking skills and behaviors such as impulse control, paying attention, planning ability, and more aggressive behavior, all of which play a vital role in how children perform in school and interact with others.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response:  The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists both caution against cannabis use during pregnancy because of possible health risks to mothers and children. Some women may turn to cannabis to help deal with some common issues of pregnancy including nausea, sleep problems and stress. Some perceive that because it comes from a plant, that it is safe, but this isn’t true. Consulting with a health care provider to find safer options to help with these issues during pregnancy is important.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a results of this study?

Response: Continued followup to examine associations as children grow and develop will be important to understand potential effects across childhood and adolescence.

Nothing additional to add and no disclosures.

Citation:

Keim SA, Fried P, Yeates KO, et al. Prenatal Cannabis Exposure and Executive Function and Aggressive Behavior at Age 5 Years. JAMA Pediatr. Published online October 28, 2024. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.4352

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Last Updated on October 30, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD