A cross‑country research effort involving scientists from Australia and Ethiopia examined how cannabis exposure during pregnancy may influence neurodevelopment in children, including risks for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study’s findings were reported in a scientific journal focused on psychiatric research.
Cannabis products contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). In many parts of the world, laws regulate or restrict the sale and use of these substances and related products due to their psychoactive properties.
ADHD is understood as a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can disrupt everyday functioning, particularly in educational settings. It is typically identified in childhood, yet symptoms may persist into adulthood.
ASD represents a group of developmental differences that affect communication, behavior, and social interaction to varying degrees. Individuals with ASD often experience challenges in social communication, may engage in repetitive behaviors, and exhibit a narrower range of interests.
The researchers conducted a comprehensive search of scientific databases to gather articles that explored the link between prenatal cannabis exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring, with a focus on ADHD and ASD. The dataset encompassed information from a large population, enabling a broad analysis.
Findings indicated that children exposed to cannabis in utero faced a statistically significant higher likelihood of displaying ADHD symptoms or receiving an ADHD diagnosis.
Regarding ASD, prenatal cannabis exposure was also linked to a greater chance of ASD symptoms in offspring. However, this association did not reach statistical significance, suggesting that observed relationships could be influenced by chance or other factors.
Earlier research has explored connections between cannabis use and cardiovascular conditions, highlighting that the topic spans multiple health domains and warrants careful consideration of shared risk factors and biological mechanisms.