EC Paediatrics

Research Article Volume 12 Issue 12 - 2023

A Systematic Review of the Association Between Prenatal Cannabis Usage and the Impact on Behavior and Cognitive Skills in Children

Victoria Gisondi1, Jigar R Katwala2* and Jeevan Divakaran3

1Fourth Year Medical Student, Medical University of the Americas, Saint Kitts and Nevis
 2Professor Pharmacology and Clinical Skills, Medical University of the Americas, Saint Kitts and Nevis
 3Professor Pathology, Medical University of the Americas, Saint Kitts and Nevis

*Corresponding Author: Jigar R Katwala, Professor Clinical Skills and Pharmacology, Medical University of the Americas, Potworks Estate, Nevis, St. Kitts and Nevis.
Received: November 03, 2023; Published: November 22, 2023




Background: As cannabis legalization around the world continues to rise, the importance of understanding its impact on our population increases. A population of great concern is our obstetric population as the teratogenic effects of cannabis are not well recognized.

Methods: A systematic review was completed using several online databases including PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar using the search terms "prenatal cannabis use", "cannabis and behavioral control", and "cannabis exposure". The inclusion criteria for articles used in the results section were primary or secondary sources published no later than 2011, and those written in the English language. Study designs included cross-sectional, cohort, and animal studies. Those that met the criteria were investigated for behavioral outcomes of prenatal cannabis exposure through a critical appraisal of evidence. Secondary outcomes such as mood disorders and other behavioral concerns were also documented.

Results: Seven studies were included in this review. Results indicated that children who were exposed to cannabis in the womb demonstrated direct effects on aggression, cognitive scores, and delinquency compared to those without exposure. Additionally, prenatal exposure was found to have various indirect effects on the risk of psychopathy, depression, IQ, and anxiety.

Conclusion: Current studies have established various direct and indirect long-term behavioral concerns with prenatal cannabis use. Future studies should include more recent data to inform future policies and interventions for women of reproductive age.

 Keywords: Cannabis; Delinquency; Aggression; Child Development; Prenatal Exposure; Tetrahydrocannabinol; Neurodevelopment

 

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Jigar R Katwala., et al. "A Systematic Review of the Association Between Prenatal Cannabis Usage and the Impact on Behavior and Cognitive Skills in Children". EC Paediatrics 12.12 (2023): 01-14.

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