The Growing Concern
A new, comprehensive evidence review from Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) has raised alarm bells regarding the use of cannabis during pregnancy. This review, published in the respected journal JAMA Pediatrics, underscores the increasing trend of cannabis consumption among expecting mothers and the potential health risks it poses to their infants.
Cannabis Impact on Infant Development
Involving 51 observational studies with data from over 21 million individuals, this update reveals that cannabis use during pregnancy can lead to increased odds of preterm birth, low birth weight, and even infant mortality. The lead researcher, Jamie Lo, M.D., M.C.R., emphasizes the shifting certainty of evidence from very low to moderate, highlighting how this discovery could redefine prenatal care recommendations.
Challenges in Pregnancy Care
Cannabis, still illegal under federal law but legal for medicinal and recreational use in Oregon, remains a subject of debate among pregnant women, some of whom use it to alleviate symptoms like nausea and insomnia. Dr. Lo explains that a harm-reduction approach may be necessary for those who struggle to abstain, advising reduced use to minimize risk. This nuanced recommendation underscores the complexities faced by obstetricians in modern-day clinical scenarios.
Scientific Backing and Observations
The study’s findings are not only based on human data but also supported by research on nonhuman primates exposed to THC, cannabis’s main psychoactive compound. These primate studies show detrimental effects on the placenta, impacting fetal growth due to impaired blood flow and oxygen availability.
Legal Yet Disputed
Even as cannabis enjoys legal status in various states, its implications during pregnancy necessitate careful analysis and caution. Dr. Lo advocates for awareness and education, favoring abstinence but recognizing it may not be feasible for all patients.
Collaborative Research Endeavors
Contributing to the Systematically Testing the Evidence on Marijuana (STEM) project, this research effort involves a cross-disciplinary team from OHSU and the Veterans Affairs Portland Health Care System. Funded by major health institutions, the project aims to deepen understanding and inform policy regarding cannabis use.
With its findings resonating both with scientific communities and public health policies, as stated in OHSU News, this review marks a crucial step in addressing the effects of cannabis on maternal and infant health.
For further information and to access more detailed reports, visit JAMA Pediatrics and related scientific publications.
