The Longitudinal Assessment of Prenatal Cannabis Use on Neonatal Outcomes

Abstract

Abstract Objective Investigate the association between prenatal cannabis use and neonatal outcomes using longitudinal data from pregnant individuals. Study Design Data was leveraged from the Stress in Pregnancy longitudinal study, conducted between 2009 and 2013. Interviews and electronic medical records of 894 pregnant individuals were analyzed, with 791 identified as using cannabis. Cannabis use and neonatal outcomes (NICU admission, preterm delivery, low birth weight, fetal death) were investigated. Results Among participants analyzed, 13.1% used cannabis, who were generally younger (25.9 vs 27.9 years). Unadjusted analysis indicated a seven-fold increased risk of fetal death (OR 7.30) with cannabis, which persisted after adjustments (aOR 6.31). Adjusted models also suggested increased low birth weight risk (aOR 1.67). Conclusion This study highlights an association between prenatal cannabis use and elevated risks for fetal death and low birth weight. Funding Support: NIH T32HL160513, NIDA R25DA033211, NIDA R01DA057310, Addiction Institute of Mount Sinai internal funds