An international team of scientists from Australia and Ethiopia found that cannabis use by pregnant women increases the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in their children. The study was published in the scientific journal broadcasting Journal of Psychiatric Research (JPR).
Marijuana contains the psychoactive substances tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). In many countries of the world, the circulation and use of these compounds and products containing them are partially or completely prohibited by law due to their narcotic effects.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily social functioning, especially in the school environment. It is usually detected in childhood, but symptoms may persist later in life.
ASD is a complex developmental condition that negatively affects communication abilities, behavior, and social interaction to varying degrees. People with ASD tend to have difficulty with social communication, exhibit repetitive behaviors, and a narrow range of interests.
The authors of the new study searched scientific databases for scientific articles examining the relationship between prenatal marijuana use and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, focusing specifically on ADHD and ASD. It was possible to analyze information about 203.7 thousand people in total.
The results showed that children exposed to marijuana in utero had a statistically significantly increased risk of developing ADHD symptoms and/or being diagnosed with the disorder.
Prenatal marijuana use has also been associated with an increased likelihood of developing ASD symptoms in children. However, this result was not statistically significant; This means that the observed association between marijuana use during pregnancy and ASD symptoms may be due to chance.
Previous scientists to create Association between marijuana use and cardiovascular disease.