Maternal Cannabis Use May Triple Behavior Risks in Kids
Summary:A Curtin University study found that maternal cannabis use during pregnancy and after birth triples the risk of disruptive behavioural disorders in children. Researchers warn that cannabinoids can cross the placenta and enter breast milk, potentially affecting brain development. With 1 in 5 Australian pregnant women using cannabis, experts stress the need for public awareness and policy changes to minimize harm.
Can Maternal Cannabis Use Impact a Child’s Behavior?
New research from Curtin University suggests that children exposed to cannabis during pregnancy or early childhood are three times more likely to develop disruptive behavioral disorders.
The study, published in Psychiatry Research, analyzed data from over 222,600 Australian mothers and children. It found that maternal cannabis use disorder (CUD) during pregnancy and after birth significantly raises the risk of conditions like
- Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)
- Conduct disorder (CD).
How Cannabis Use Affects Child Behavior
Lead researcher Abay Tadesse from Curtin’s School of Population Health emphasized the importance of targeted interventions for reproductive-age women.
“We found children of mothers with cannabis use disorder were at a significantly higher risk of developing behavioural issues such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD),” Mr. Tadesse said
The study revealed:
- Pregnancy (Maternal) cannabis use increased the risk of disruptive behavioral disorders by 3.56 times.
- Postnatal cannabis use raised the risk by 2.95 times.
A Growing Public Health Concern
With 1 in 5 Australian pregnant women estimated to use cannabis, researchers stress the urgent need for awareness and prevention strategies.
Professor Rosa Alati, Head of Curtin’s School of Population Health, highlighted how cannabis exposure affects brain development:
“Cannabinoid ingredients can cross the placenta and enter breast milk, potentially affecting brain development. This research provides critical evidence to help shape health policies aimed at minimizing harm.”
The Need for Further Research
The study identifies maternal cannabis use as a key risk factor, but other factors may also contribute to disorders:
- Genetic
- Environmental
- Social factors
Researchers call for further genetic studies to fully understand these complex links.
Final Thoughts: Why Awareness of Maternal Cannabis Use is Important?
This study highlights the long-term risks of cannabis use during pregnancy and early motherhood. As cannabis use becomes more widespread, it’s crucial to educate women about its potential impact on child development.
What do you think about these findings? Should cannabis use guidelines for pregnant women be stricter? Share your thoughts below!
Dane
I am an MBBS graduate and a dedicated medical writer with a strong passion for deep research and psychology. I enjoy breaking down complex medical topics into engaging, easy-to-understand content, aiming to educate and inspire readers by exploring the fascinating connection between health, science, and the human mind.
