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Brik M, Sandonis M, Cabeza Oliver C, Temprado J, Hernández Fleury A, Sánchez Echevarria E, Carreras E. Predictors for cannabis cessation during pregnancy: a 10-year cohort study. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2024; 45:2319290. [PMID: 38401055 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2024.2319290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to determine factors associated with cannabis discontinuation, to assess the impact of mental health and addiction interventions on cannabis discontinuation during pregnancy and to investigate the neonatal impact of cannabis discontinuation. This is a 10-year cohort study in a tertiary hospital in Barcelona, Spain, including women with self-reported cannabis use during pregnancy. Main outcome was cannabis discontinuation based on biological sample testing. Secondary outcomes were neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, preterm birth, birth weight and bottle-feeding. When cannabis use was detected during pregnancy, 32 out of 81 (38.3%) discontinued cannabis during pregnancy vs. four out of 61 (6.6%) when detected at birth (p < .001). Multivariate binary logistic regression showed that null parity (OR: 6.95, p = .011), detection of cannabis use during pregnancy (OR: 5.35, p = .018) and early detection and referral to mental health care for counseling on cannabis cessation and interventions on the first trimester (OR: 25.46, p < .001) increased cannabis discontinuation. Risk for preterm birth <37 weeks (11.4% vs. 30.8%) and NICU admission (25.7% vs. 54.2%) were lower when discontinuation. Early detection of cannabis use during pregnancy, cessation counseling with mental health interventions, and null parity are predictors for cannabis discontinuation during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maia Brik
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Sandonis
- Mental Health Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Cabeza Oliver
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Joaquín Temprado
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alina Hernández Fleury
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Sánchez Echevarria
- Department of Social Work Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Health Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Carreras
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal-Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Rausgaard NLK, Ibsen IO, Fruekilde PBN, Nohr EA, Damkier P, Ravn P. Screening of substance use in pregnancy: A Danish cross-sectional study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2024; 103:1408-1419. [PMID: 38778571 PMCID: PMC11168282 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is a paucity of objectively verified data on substance use among Danish pregnant women. We estimated the prevalence of substance use including alcohol and nicotine among the general population of Danish pregnant women. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this anonymous, national, cross-sectional, descriptive study, pregnant women were invited when attending an ultrasound scan between November 2019 and December 2020 at nine Danish hospitals. Women submitted a urine sample and filled out a questionnaire. Urine samples were screened on-site with a qualitative urine dipstick for 15 substances including alcohol, nicotine, opioids, amphetamines, cannabis, and benzodiazepines. All screen-positive urine samples underwent secondary quantitative analyses with gold standard, liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. Results were compared to questionnaire information to analyze the validity of self-reporting and to examine possible cross-reactions. RESULTS A total of 1903 of 2154 invited pregnant women participated (88.3%). The prevalence of dipstick-positive urine samples was 25.0%. 44.0% of these were confirmed positive, resulting in a total confirmed prevalence of 10.8%. The prevalence of nicotine use was 10.1%-and for all other substances, <0.5%. Nicotine use was more prevalent among younger pregnant women, while other substance use appeared evenly distributed over age groups. Self-reporting of use of nicotine products was high (71.1%), but low for cannabis and alcohol intake (0% and 33.3%, respectively). Prescription medication explained almost all cases of oxycodone, methylphenidate, and benzodiazepine use. CONCLUSIONS Substance use among pregnant women consisted mainly of nicotine. Dipstick screening involved risks of false negatives and false positives. Except for alcohol intake and cannabis use, dipstick analyses did not seem to provide further information than self-reporting. LC-MS/MS analyses remain gold standard, and future role of dipstick screenings should be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nete Lundager Klokker Rausgaard
- Department of Clinical ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
| | - Inge Olga Ibsen
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
| | | | - Ellen Aagaard Nohr
- Department of Clinical ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
| | - Per Damkier
- Department of Clinical ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
- Department of Clinical PharmacologyOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
| | - Pernille Ravn
- Department of Clinical ResearchUniversity of Southern DenmarkOdenseDenmark
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsOdense University HospitalOdenseDenmark
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Brik M, Sandonis M, Hernández‐Fleury A, Gil J, Mota M, Barranco FJ, Garcia I, Maiz N, Carreras E. Cannabis exposure during pregnancy and perinatal outcomes: A cohort study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2024; 103:1083-1091. [PMID: 38504476 PMCID: PMC11103132 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis potency and its use during pregnancy have increased in the last decade. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of antenatal cannabis use on fetal growth, preterm birth and other perinatal outcomes. MATERIAL AND METHODS A propensity score-matched analysis was performed in women with singleton pregnancies attending a tertiary care site in Barcelona. Women in the cannabis group were selected based on the results of a detection test. Primary outcomes were small for gestational age at birth (SGA), low birthweight and preterm birth. Secondary outcomes were other biometric parameters (neonatal length and head circumference), respiratory distress, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit and breastfeeding at discharge. A second propensity score-matched analysis excluding other confounders (use of other recreational drugs and discontinuation of cannabis use during pregnancy) was performed. RESULTS Antenatal cannabis was associated with a higher odds ratio of SGA (OR 3.60, 95% CI: 1.68-7.69), low birthweight (OR 3.94, 95% CI: 2.17-7.13), preterm birth at 37 weeks (OR 2.07, 95% CI: 1.12-3.84) and 32 weeks of gestation (OR 4.13, 95% CI: 1.06-16.11), admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (OR 1.95, 95% CI: 1.03-3.71), respiratory distress (OR 2.77, 95% CI: 1.26-6.34), and lower breastfeeding rates at discharge (OR 0.10, 95% CI: 0.05-0.18). When excluding other confounders, no significant association between antenatal cannabis use and SGA was found. CONCLUSIONS Antenatal cannabis use increases the risk of SGA, low birthweight, preterm birth and other adverse perinatal outcomes. However, when isolating the impact of cannabis use by excluding women who use other recreational drugs and those who discontinue cannabis during pregnancy, no significant association between antenatal cannabis use and SGA birth was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maia Brik
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Miguel Sandonis
- Mental Health DepartmentHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic MedicineUniversitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Alina Hernández‐Fleury
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Judit Gil
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Miriam Mota
- Statistics and Bioinformatics Unit (UEB) Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Francisco José Barranco
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Itziar Garcia
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Nerea Maiz
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Elena Carreras
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
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Tadesse AW, Ayano G, Dachew BA, Betts K, Alati R. Exposure to maternal cannabis use disorder and risk of autism spectrum disorder in offspring: A data linkage cohort study. Psychiatry Res 2024; 337:115971. [PMID: 38788554 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the association between pre-pregnancy, prenatal and perinatal exposures to cannabis use disorder (CUD) and the risk of autism spectrum disoder (ASD) in offspring. Data were drawn from the New South Wales (NSW) Perinatal Data Collection (PDC), population-based, linked administrative health data encompassing all-live birth cohort from January 2003 to December 2005. This study involved 222 534 mother-offspring pairs. . The exposure variable (CUD) and the outcome of interest (ASD) were identified using the 10th international disease classification criteria, Australian Modified (ICD-10-AM). We found a three-fold increased risk of ASD in the offspring of mothers with maternal CUD compared to non-exposed offspring. In our sensitivity analyses, male offspring have a higher risk of ASD associated with maternal CUD than their female counterparts. In conclusion, exposure to maternal CUD is linked to a higher risk of ASD in offspring, with a stronger risk in male offspring. Further research is needed to understand these gender-specific effects and the relationship between maternal CUD and ASD risk in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abay Woday Tadesse
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia; Dream Science and Technology College, Dessie 1466, Amhara region, Ethiopia; Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Samara University 132, Semera, Ethiopia.
| | - Getinet Ayano
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Berihun Assefa Dachew
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Kim Betts
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia
| | - Rosa Alati
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA, 6102, Australia; Institute for Social Sciences Research, The University of Queensland, 80 Meier's Rd, Indooroopilly, QLD, 4068, Australia
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Vila-Farinas A, Pérez-Ríos M, Montes-Martínez A, Ahluwalia JS, Mourino N, Rey-Brandariz J, Triñanes-Pego Y, Candal-Pedreira C, Ruano-Ravina A, Gómez-Salgado P, Miguez-Varela C, Tajes-Alonso M, Loureiro-Fuentes I, Riesgo-Martín J, Valverde-Trillo A, Fernández-Lema I, Rey-Arijón M, Freiría-Somoza I, Rodríguez-Pampín M, Varela-Lema L. Perception of pregnant individuals, health providers and decision makers on interventions to cease substance consumption during pregnancy: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:990. [PMID: 38594646 PMCID: PMC11003004 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18397-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite multiple recommendations and strategies implemented at a national and international level, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, and cannabis use during pregnancy remains high in most countries. The objective of this study was to examine key stakeholders' perception of the treatment interventions adopted in Spain, to identify political, organizational and personal factors associated with successful implementation, and to propose strategies for improvement. METHODS A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach was conducted in 2022. The target groups were: (1) clinical decision makers in the field of addiction science, (2) health professionals who carry out treatment interventions, and (3) pregnant individuals who use tobacco, alcohol or cannabis. Two focus groups and eight in-depth interviews were conducted, recorded, and transcribed. Exploratory analysis and inductive open coding was performed, codes were merged into categories, and subcategories were identified. RESULTS The analysis resulted in 10 subcategories which were further merged into three main categories: (1) Degree of adoption and utility of treatment interventions implemented; (2) Needs and demands with respect to the organization of treatment interventions; and, (3) Personal barriers to and facilitators for treatment. Respondents reported that despite multiple national and regional cessation initiatives, treatment interventions were rarely adopted in clinical practice. Health care administrators demanded reliable records to quantify substance use for better planning of activities. Health care professionals advocated for additional time and training and both echoed the importance of integrating cessation interventions into routine prenatal care and creating in-house specialized units. The difficulty in quitting, lack of awareness of risk for foetus and child and the controversial advice were identified as barriers by pregnant individuals. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with previous work, this study found that cessation strategies implemented by the health authorities are not effective if they are not accompanied by organizational and behavioral changes. The current study identifies a set of factors that could be pivotal in ensuring the success of treatment interventions targeting tobacco, alcohol and cannabis use among pregnant individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vila-Farinas
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
| | - Mónica Pérez-Ríos
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain.
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, [CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP], A Coruna, Spain.
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela [Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS], A Coruna, Spain.
| | - Agustín Montes-Martínez
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, [CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP], A Coruna, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela [Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS], A Coruna, Spain
| | - Jasjit S- Ahluwalia
- Departament of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Nerea Mourino
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
| | - Julia Rey-Brandariz
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, [CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP], A Coruna, Spain
| | - Yolanda Triñanes-Pego
- Scientific-technical Assessment Unit [Avalia-t]. Galician Health Knowledge Management Agency, Agencia Gallega de Conocimiento en Salud/ACIS, A Coruna, Spain
| | - Cristina Candal-Pedreira
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, [CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP], A Coruna, Spain
| | - Alberto Ruano-Ravina
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, [CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP], A Coruna, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela [Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS], A Coruna, Spain
| | - Patricia Gómez-Salgado
- Scientific-technical Assessment Unit [Avalia-t]. Galician Health Knowledge Management Agency, Agencia Gallega de Conocimiento en Salud/ACIS, A Coruna, Spain
| | - Carmen Miguez-Varela
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
| | - María Tajes-Alonso
- Mental Health Department, Regional Health Authority, Galician Regional Authority [Xunta de Galicia], A Coruna, Spain
| | - Isabel Loureiro-Fuentes
- Ordes Health Center, Galician Health Service [Servicio Galego de Saúde/SERGAS], A Coruna, Spain
| | - Juan Riesgo-Martín
- Catalonian Health Institute, Institut Català de la Salut/ICS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Araceli Valverde-Trillo
- Department of Health, Catalonian Public Health Agency, Catalonian Regional Authority [Generalitat de Cataluña], A Coruna, Spain
| | | | - Mercedes Rey-Arijón
- Santiago de Compostela University Clinical Teaching Hospital, Galician Health Service, A Coruna, Spain
| | - Isabel Freiría-Somoza
- Santiago de Compostela University Clinical Teaching Hospital, Galician Health Service, A Coruna, Spain
| | - María Rodríguez-Pampín
- Santiago de Compostela University Clinical Teaching Hospital, Galician Health Service, A Coruna, Spain
| | - Leonor Varela-Lema
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruna, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health, [CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública/CIBERESP], A Coruna, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela [Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela - IDIS], A Coruna, Spain
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Young-Wolff KC, Green A, Iturralde E, Altschuler A, Does MB, Jackson-Morris M, Adams SR, Ansley D, Conway A, Goler N, Skelton K, Foti TR. Intentions to Use Cannabis Postpartum: A Qualitative Study of Pregnant Individuals Who Used Cannabis During Early Pregnancy. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2024; 33:435-445. [PMID: 38407822 PMCID: PMC11238839 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2023.0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: To examine plans for postpartum cannabis use among pregnant individuals who used cannabis during early pregnancy. Materials and Methods: Eighteen virtual focus groups were conducted from November 17, 2021, to December 17, 2021, with 23 Black and 30 White pregnant adults in Kaiser Permanente Northern California, who self-reported prenatal cannabis use during early pregnancy. Focus groups were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The sample (N = 53) had a mean age of 30.3 years (standard deviation = 5.2) at recruitment; 70% reported daily, 25% weekly, and 6% ≤ monthly cannabis use at entrance to prenatal care. Some participants viewed cannabis as critical for coping with postpartum mental and physical health challenges, while others questioned whether cannabis use would fit with their parental lifestyle, and some planned to abstain altogether. Most planned to use cannabis postpartum, but with lower frequency than before pregnancy, and in ways consistent with harm reduction (e.g., smoking outside to avoid secondhand or thirdhand smoke exposure). Many were motivated to abstain from cannabis while breastfeeding, and some desired more data on the safety of cannabis and breastfeeding, or intended to "pump and dump," believing it would reduce potential transfer of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to their infant. Responses from Black and White participants were generally similar, but White participants were more likely to report plans to use cannabis while breastfeeding and to want information about cannabis and breastfeeding. Conclusions: Pregnant individuals with prenatal cannabis use had varied plans for cannabis use postpartum. Many were motivated to abstain or use cannabis less frequently than pre-pregnancy, especially during lactation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly C. Young-Wolff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Andrea Green
- Sacramento Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Esti Iturralde
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Andrea Altschuler
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Monique B. Does
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | | | - Sara R. Adams
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Deborah Ansley
- Regional Offices, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Amy Conway
- Regional Offices, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Nancy Goler
- Regional Offices, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
| | - Kara Skelton
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health Professions, Towson, Maryland, USA
| | - Tara R. Foti
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California, USA
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Goubran J, Okunnu OG, Lavu A, Eltonsy S. Third generation antiseizure medications exposure during pregnancy and neonatal adverse birth outcomes: A systematic review. Sci Prog 2024; 107:368504241234781. [PMID: 39053015 PMCID: PMC11282516 DOI: 10.1177/00368504241234781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Background: Third generation antiseizure medications (ASMs) are currently used for seizure control as well as several other indications, including pain management and psychiatric disorders. As a result, maternal exposure to third generation ASMs during pregnancy has become increasingly prevalent. The current systematic review aimed to summarize the published evidence on third generation ASMs and their effect on preterm birth, cesarean section (c-section) and fetal loss. Methods: The following databases were searched: Medline, Embase, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, Cochrane Library and Scopus until September 2022. Results: We screened 2987 studies, and identified 32 studies or case reports for inclusion, however only one study utilized a control group. Narrative systematic evidence synthesis was conducted for brivaracetam, eslicarbazepine, fosphenytoin, lacosamide and perampanel. Conclusion: Due to the scarcity and quality of published studies, drawing clear-cut conclusions regarding third generation ASMs and the outcomes of interest is challenging. More comparative safety studies focusing on neonatal safety of third generation ASMs in pregnancy are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Goubran
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Oreofe Grace Okunnu
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Alekhya Lavu
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Sherif Eltonsy
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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Tadesse AW, Ayano G, Dachew BA, Tusa BS, Damtie Y, Betts K, Alati R. The association between prenatal cannabis use and congenital birth defects in offspring: A cumulative meta-analysis. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2024; 102:107340. [PMID: 38460861 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2024.107340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the association between prenatal cannabis use and structural birth defects in exposed offspring. METHODS In line with the preregistered protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42022368623), we systematically searched PubMed/Medline, CINHAL, EMBASE, Web of Science, ProQuest, Psych-Info, and Google Scholar for published articles until 25 January 2024. The methodological quality of the included studies was appraised by the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). A meta-analysis was carried out to report the pooled effect estimates from the included studies. We further performed subgroup, leave-one-out sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses, which increased the robustness of our findings. RESULTS In this cumulative meta-analysis, thirty-six observational studies, consisting of 18 case-control and 18 cohort studies, with 230, 816 cases of birth defects and 18,049,013 controls (healthy babies) were included in the final analysis. We found that offspring exposed to maternal prenatal cannabis are at greater risks of a wide range of structural birth defects: cardiovascular/heart [OR = 2.35: 95 % CI 1.63 - 3.39], gastrointestinal [OR = 2.42: 95 % CI 1.61 - 3.64], central nervous system [OR = 2.87: 95 % CI 1.51 - 5.46], genitourinary [OR = 2.39: 95 % CI 1.11 - 5.17], and any (unclassified) birth defects [OR = 1.25: 95 % CI 1.12 - 1.41]. CONCLUSION The findings from the current study suggest that maternal prenatal cannabis exposure is associated with a higher risk of different forms of structural birth defects in offspring. The findings underscore the significance of implementing preventive strategies, including enhanced preconception counselling, to address cannabis use during pregnancy and mitigate the risk of birth defects in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abay Woday Tadesse
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia; Samara University, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Public Health, 132, Semera, Ethiopia; Dream Science and Technology College, 1466 Dessie, Ethiopia.
| | - Getinet Ayano
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Berihun Assefa Dachew
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Biruk Shalmeno Tusa
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Yitayish Damtie
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Kim Betts
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Rosa Alati
- School of Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia; Institute for Social Sciences Research, The University of Queensland, 80 Meier's Rd, Indooroopilly, QLD 4068, Australia
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Baía I, Domingues RMSM. The Effects of Cannabis Use during Pregnancy on Low Birth Weight and Preterm Birth: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:17-30. [PMID: 35901851 DOI: 10.1055/a-1911-3326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to summarize the literature regarding the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy on low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth (PTB), and small for gestational age (SGA). STUDY DESIGN This is a systematic review and meta-analysis. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, and Web of Science in May 2021 and updated in November 2021. Only studies that assessed the isolated use of cannabis during pregnancy, controlling for cigarette smoking, and other illicit drug use were included. Data were synthesized using a narrative summary and pooled adjusted estimates, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for each outcome. Data were analyzed using Stata 13.0 with METAN software package, using random effects. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran's Q and Higgins I2 tests. RESULTS In total, 32 studies were included with data from approximately 5.5 million women with the LBW outcome and 23 million with the PTB and SGA outcomes. Pregnant women using cannabis are at increased risk for LBW (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.52; 95% CI = [1.18; 1.96]), PTB (aOR = 1.39; 95% CI = [1.28; 1.51]), and SGA (aOR = 1.47; 95% CI = [1.38; 1.58]). Studies that assessed the type of PTB and gestational age at birth indicate higher risks of spontaneous PTB and of early or very-early PTBs associated with cannabis use during pregnancy. The few studies that assessed the timing and frequency of consumption suggest a dose-response effect, with higher odds of negative outcomes among women who reported heavy use and with continued use during the second and third trimesters of gestation. CONCLUSION There is an effect of cannabis irrespective of other illicit drugs and tobacco despite high heterogeneity and low quality of evidence. There is a need to discuss public policies regarding cannabis' regulation and how it influences its consumption. Future studies should focus on the effects of cannabis's type (medicinal or recreational), timing, and dosage during pregnancy on perinatal outcomes. KEY POINTS · Cannabis use during pregnancy is increasing.. · Cannabis has an independent effect on PTB, LBW, and SGA.. · Future studies should focus on the timing of exposure during pregnancy, mode of use, and dosage..
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Baía
- EPIUnit-Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, Porto, Portugal
- Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Rua das Taipas, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rosa M S M Domingues
- Epidemiologist, Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas/Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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10
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Huerne K, Ells C, Grad R, Filion KB, Eisenberg MJ. Cannabis-Impaired driving: ethical considerations for the primary care practitioner. Ann Med 2023; 55:24-33. [PMID: 36444881 PMCID: PMC9718556 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2151716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Widespread cannabis consumption and recreational cannabis legalization is thought to have led to an increase in motor vehicle accidents, although there currently lacks ethical guidance for primary care practitioners on cannabis-impaired driving.Objective: The aim was to develop an ethical framework for primary care providers on cannabis-impaired driving.Methods: An ethical analysis in the form of a critical interpretive review was undertaken, using a systematic approach to determine the appropriate action to a given situation with evidence to substantiate its claims. The search strategy was designed to answer the research question: What are some ethical concerns for primary care providers to consider when cannabis-impaired driving is suspected? Four databases were searched in December 2021 using keywords related to cannabis, impaired driving, ethics, and primary care. The resulting evidence was synthesized as recommendations for primary care practice.Results: The ethical approach for primary care practitioners in addressing cannabis-impaired driving can be summarized as the duty to always inform, provide care through prevention and harm reduction strategies, and report when necessary. The prevention of cannabis-impaired driving should not fall on the sole responsibility of primary care practitioners. As this review offers a high-level discussion of the ethical considerations in cannabis-impaired driving, specific recommendations will depend upon the legal and policy designations of individual jurisdictions.Conclusion: Ultimately, the practitioner should manage cannabis-impaired driving in a way that fosters the therapeutic relationship in patient-centered care, through motivational discussions, collaboration with specialists, skills for self-management, patient empowerment, and support. KEY MESSAGES Take-Home Points for Primary Care Practitioners in Cannabis-Impaired Driving • For patients who report driving frequently and using cannabis, the frequency of use, dosage, form of cannabis, tolerance levels, and withdrawal symptoms should be discussed, while informing the patient of the risks, harms, and legal consequences associated with cannabis-impaired driving. • The practitioner's primary responsibility in the cannabis-impaired driving context is to provide care to patients who drive and consume cannabis, which may include referring patients to mental health care to manage addictive or problematic behaviors associated with cannabis use. • Practitioners may have a duty to report cannabis-impaired driving to legal authorities (such as law enforcement) when the user engages in harmful behavior to themselves or others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Huerne
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, and Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Carolyn Ells
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, and Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Roland Grad
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Kristian B Filion
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Departments of Medicine and of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mark J Eisenberg
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Departments of Medicine and of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Division of Cardiology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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11
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Taneja S, Panday J, Popoola A, Greyson D, McDonald SD, Patel T, Vanstone M. Making informed choices about cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation: A qualitative study of information use. Birth 2023; 50:504-512. [PMID: 35848512 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation continues to increase as some perceive cannabis to be helpful for symptom management and coping. As such, pregnant and lactating people are faced with challenging decisions, weighing benefits against the potential risks of cannabis use. To help clinicians facilitate informed choices, we explored the self-identified information needs of pregnant and lactating people who are deciding whether or not to use cannabis. We aimed to describe the modes and sources of their information-seeking and their satisfaction with the information they found. METHODS We interviewed 52 people in Canada who made the decision to start, stop, or continue using cannabis during pregnancy and lactation. Participants were recruited from advertisements in prenatal clinics and on social media. We utilized an inductive approach to analysis focused on information used in decision-making about cannabis use, including the process of seeking and evaluating that information. RESULTS Participants were deliberate in their search for information, most commonly seeking information on risks of use. Information sources were mainly online material or people in their social networks. Clinicians were not commonly described as a knowledgeable or supportive source of information. Overwhelmingly, participants described the information they found as insufficient and emphasized the need for more comprehensive and trustworthy sources of information. CONCLUSIONS Participants identified distinct and unmet information needs associated with their decision to use cannabis. They described a desire for clear evidence about the impact of cannabis use, including information about how to balance the benefits they perceived from cannabis use with the risks of harm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shipra Taneja
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janelle Panday
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anuoluwa Popoola
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Devon Greyson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah D McDonald
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radiology and Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tejal Patel
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Meredith Vanstone
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Bouquet E, Blouin P, Pérault-Pochat MC, Carlier-Guérin C, Millot F, Ricco JB, De Keizer J, Pain S, Guétarni F. Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Outcomes Related to Recreational Cannabis Use during Pregnancy: Analysis of a Real-World Clinical Data Warehouse between 2010 and 2019. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6686. [PMID: 37681826 PMCID: PMC10487904 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is the main illicit psychoactive substance used in French childbearing women and very few data are available about adverse events (AEs) related to its use during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between recreational cannabis use during pregnancy and adverse outcomes from a real-world clinical data warehouse. METHODS Data from the Poitiers University Hospital warehouse were analyzed between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2019. Logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between outcomes in three prenatal user groups: cannabis alone ± tobacco (C ± T) (n = 123), tobacco alone (T) (n = 191) and controls (CTRL) (n = 355). RESULTS Pregnant women in the C ± T group were younger (mean age: 25.5 ± 5.7 years), had lower pre-pregnancy body mass index (22.8 ± 5.5 kg/m2), more psychiatric history (17.5%) and were more likely to benefit from universal free health-care coverage (18.2%) than those in the T and CTRL groups. Cannabis use increases the occurrence of voluntary interruption of pregnancy, at least one AE during pregnancy, at least one neonatal AE, the composite adverse pregnancy outcome over 28, prematurity and small for gestational age. CONCLUSION Given the trivialization of recreational cannabis use during pregnancy, there is an urgent need to communicate on AEs of cannabis use during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Bouquet
- Addictovigilance Center, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
- French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) U1084, Experimental and Clinical Neurosciences Laboratory, University of Poitiers, CEDEX 9, 86073 Poitiers, France
- Clinical Investigation Center CIC1402, INSERM, Poitiers University Hospital, University of Poitiers, 86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Pascal Blouin
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Marie-Christine Pérault-Pochat
- Addictovigilance Center, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
- French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) U1084, Experimental and Clinical Neurosciences Laboratory, University of Poitiers, CEDEX 9, 86073 Poitiers, France
- Clinical Investigation Center CIC1402, INSERM, Poitiers University Hospital, University of Poitiers, 86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Caroline Carlier-Guérin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Frédéric Millot
- Department of Pediatrics, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Ricco
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Joe De Keizer
- Clinical Investigation Center CIC1402, INSERM, Poitiers University Hospital, University of Poitiers, 86000 Poitiers, France
| | - Stéphanie Pain
- Addictovigilance Center, Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
- French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) U1084, Experimental and Clinical Neurosciences Laboratory, University of Poitiers, CEDEX 9, 86073 Poitiers, France
| | - Farid Guétarni
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Poitiers University Hospital, 86000 Poitiers, France
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13
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Hayer S, Mandelbaum AD, Watch L, Ryan KS, Hedges MA, Manuzak JA, Easley CA, Schust DJ, Lo JO. Cannabis and Pregnancy: A Review. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2023; 78:411-428. [PMID: 37480292 PMCID: PMC10372687 DOI: 10.1097/ogx.0000000000001159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Importance Prenatal cannabis use is rising and is a major public health issue. Cannabis use in pregnancy and during lactation has been associated with increased maternal and offspring morbidity and mortality. Objective This review aims to summarize the existing literature and current recommendations for cannabis use during pregnancy or lactation. Evidence Acquisition A PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar literature search using the following terms was performed to gather relevant data: "cannabis," "cannabinoid," "delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol," "THC," "cannabidiol," "fetal outcomes," "perinatal outcomes," "pregnancy," and "lactation." Results Available studies on cannabis use in pregnancy and during lactation were reviewed and support an association with increased risk of preterm birth, neonatal intensive care unit admission, low birth weight, and small-for-gestational-age infants. Conclusion and Relevance There is a critical need for research on the effects of cannabis use in pregnancy and during lactation. This is a necessary first step before furthering patient education, developing interventions, and targeting antenatal surveillance to ameliorate the adverse impacts on maternal and fetal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarena Hayer
- Postgraduate Year 2, Obstetrics-Gynecology Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - Ava D Mandelbaum
- MS2 Medical Student, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Lester Watch
- Postgraduate Year 1, Obstetrics-Gynecology Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | | | - Madeline A Hedges
- Research Assistant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Jennifer A Manuzak
- Assistant Professor, Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA
| | - Charles A Easley
- Associate Professor, Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
| | - Danny J Schust
- Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University, Durham, NC
| | - Jamie O Lo
- Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
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14
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McPherson C. Up in Smoke: The Impacts of Marijuana During Pregnancy. Neonatal Netw 2023; 42:222-232. [PMID: 37491043 DOI: 10.1891/nn-2022-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Numerous drugs ingested during pregnancy can impact the developing fetus. Although some effects are apparent at birth as overt teratogenicity or profound neonatal withdrawal, others become apparent only after a careful long-term follow-up into childhood. Shifting legal and cultural attitudes toward marijuana have led to increased use during pregnancy. This shift should prompt health care providers to carefully consider the drug's mechanism of action, its interaction with the placenta, and the potential consequences of fetal exposure. The primary psychoactive compound in marijuana is Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which agonizes endogenous cannabinoid receptors. Cannabinoid receptors are present in the fetal brain early in gestation and appear to have an important role in the developing central nervous system. THC crosses the placenta in sufficient quantities to raise concerns about exogenous exposure during fetal development. Robust follow-up studies suggest that marijuana use during pregnancy contributes to suboptimal fetal growth. At school age, heavy prenatal marijuana exposure predicts challenges in executive function (specifically, memory and reasoning) and externalizing behavior (e.g., hyperactivity and inattention). Memory and behavioral problems persist into early adulthood. These challenges coincide with a higher risk of heavy marijuana use in offspring. In concert with a suboptimal environment, young adults may experience a higher risk of global cognitive impairment and/or delinquency. Importantly, these adverse outcomes appear to be mitigated by postnatal factors including home environment. Ongoing studies in the modern era will be vital to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms by which THC impacts the fetus and confirm or refute knowledge regarding long-term impact. This knowledge will inform both health care providers and parents in collaborative decision-making to optimize the outcome of children.
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15
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Sujan AC, Pal A, Avalos LA, Young-Wolff KC. A systematic review of in utero cannabis exposure and risk for structural birth defects. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1149401. [PMID: 37303758 PMCID: PMC10248236 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1149401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cannabis use among pregnant women has increased over time. Therefore, there is a great public health need to understand the consequences of in utero cannabis exposure. While several meta-analyses and reviews have summarized the evidence of in utero cannabis exposure on adverse obstetric outcomes (e.g., low birth weight and preterm birth) and long-term offspring development, there has not been a focus on in utero cannabis exposure and risk for structural birth defects. Methods We conducted a systematic review using PRISMA guidelines to evaluate the association between in utero cannabis exposure and structural birth defects. Results We identified 20 articles to include in our review and focused on interpreting findings from the 12 that adjusted for potential confounders. We report findings by seven organ systems. Within the 12 articles, four reported on cardiac malformations, three reported on central nervous system malformations, one reported on eye malformations, three reported on gastrointestinal malformations, one reported on genitourinary malformations, one reported on musculoskeletal malformations, and two reported on orofacial malformations. Discussion Findings on associations between in utero cannabis exposure and birth defects reported in more than two articles were mixed (i.e., findings for cardiac, gastrointestinal, central nervous system malformations). Findings for associations between in utero cannabis exposure and birth defects reported in two articles (i.e., orofacial malformations) or in a single article (eye, genitourinary, and musculoskeletal) suggested that cannabis exposure was not associated with these types of malformations, but strong conclusions cannot be drawn from such sparce research. We review the limitations and gaps in the existing literature and call for more research to rigorously evaluate associations between in utero cannabis exposure and structural birth defects. Systematic Review Registration identifier CRD42022308130.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha C. Sujan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Anish Pal
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Lyndsay A. Avalos
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Kelly C. Young-Wolff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
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16
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Shah S, Schwenk ES, Sondekoppam RV, Clarke H, Zakowski M, Rzasa-Lynn RS, Yeung B, Nicholson K, Schwartz G, Hooten WM, Wallace M, Viscusi ER, Narouze S. ASRA Pain Medicine consensus guidelines on the management of the perioperative patient on cannabis and cannabinoids. Reg Anesth Pain Med 2023; 48:97-117. [PMID: 36596580 DOI: 10.1136/rapm-2022-104013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The past two decades have seen an increase in cannabis use due to both regulatory changes and an interest in potential therapeutic effects of the substance, yet many aspects of the substance and their health implications remain controversial or unclear. METHODS In November 2020, the American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine charged the Cannabis Working Group to develop guidelines for the perioperative use of cannabis. The Perioperative Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids Guidelines Committee was charged with drafting responses to the nine key questions using a modified Delphi method with the overall goal of producing a document focused on the safe management of surgical patients using cannabinoids. A consensus recommendation required ≥75% agreement. RESULTS Nine questions were selected, with 100% consensus achieved on third-round voting. Topics addressed included perioperative screening, postponement of elective surgery, concomitant use of opioid and cannabis perioperatively, implications for parturients, adjustment in anesthetic and analgesics intraoperatively, postoperative monitoring, cannabis use disorder, and postoperative concerns. Surgical patients using cannabinoids are at potential increased risk for negative perioperative outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Specific clinical recommendations for perioperative management of cannabis and cannabinoids were successfully created.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Shah
- Dept of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Care, UC Irvine Health, Orange, California, USA
| | - Eric S Schwenk
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Hance Clarke
- Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Univ Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Zakowski
- Anesthesiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Brent Yeung
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Care, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | | | - Gary Schwartz
- AABP Integrative Pain Care, Melville, New York, USA.,Anesthesiology, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | | | - Mark Wallace
- Anesthesiology, Division of Pain Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Eugene R Viscusi
- Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Samer Narouze
- Center for Pain Medicine, Western Reserve Hospital, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, USA
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17
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Abdelmoneim WM, Bakr MH, Ghandour NM, Mohammed MK, Fawzy M, Ramadan AG, Abdellah NZ. Cytotoxicity associated with acute and chronic administration of synthetic cannabinoids “Strox” in the brain, liver, heart, and testes of male albino rats: histological and immunohistochemical study. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s41935-023-00331-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Synthetic cannabinoids are one of the largest groups of new psychoactive substances that invaded Egypt’s drug abuse market over the past few years.
Aim
Randomized controlled trial study to demonstrate the effects of acute and chronic toxicity by synthetic cannabinoid (Strox) on the brain, liver, heart, and testes in adult male albino rats through histopathological examination by light microscope and immunohistochemistry.
Methods
Total number of fifty male albino rats were divided into five different groups, two control and three treated groups. Negative and positive control groups received distilled water and dimethyl sulfoxide, respectively, acute group received LD50 (lethal dose 50) once and observed for 14 days, chronic group received 1/10 LD50 for 3 months, and finally chronic withdrawal groups received 1/10 LD50 for 3 months and then left 2 weeks without the substance to observe the withdrawal manifestations.
Results
The current study revealed various histopathological changes in all organs with increased expression of cannabinoid receptor 1. The most important findings observed by light microscope examination were shrinkage and degenerative changes in Purkinje cells in brain sections, abnormalities in blood sinusoids and architecture in liver section, disruption in cardiac muscle fiber in heart sections, and finally testes showed irregularities in seminiferous tubules and germinal cells. Immunohistochemical staining for caspase-3 in the brain, liver, and heart showed weak-positive reaction in acute group and a strong reaction with chronic groups. Additionally, increase in collagen fiber was observed in sections of the liver and heart of chronic group.
Conclusions
Synthetic cannabinoid sample (Strox) toxicity caused adverse effects on the brain, liver, heart, and testes as shown by increasing cannabinoid receptor 1 and caspase-3 expression.
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18
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Frau R, Melis M. Sex-specific susceptibility to psychotic-like states provoked by prenatal THC exposure: Reversal by pregnenolone. J Neuroendocrinol 2023; 35:e13240. [PMID: 36810840 DOI: 10.1111/jne.13240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Sociocultural attitudes towards cannabis legalization contribute to the common misconception that it is a relatively safe drug and its use during pregnancy poses no risk to the fetus. However, longitudinal studies demonstrate that maternal cannabis exposure results in adverse outcomes in the offspring, with a heightened risk for developing psychopathology. One of the most reported psychiatric outcomes is the proneness to psychotic-like experiences during childhood. How exposure to cannabis during gestation increases psychosis susceptibility in children and adolescents remains elusive. Preclinical research has indicated that in utero exposure to the major psychoactive component of cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), deranges brain developmental trajectories towards vulnerable psychotic-like endophenotypes later in life. Here, we present how prenatal THC exposure (PCE) deregulates mesolimbic dopamine development predisposing the offspring to schizophrenia-relevant phenotypes, exclusively when exposed to environmental challenges, such as stress or THC. Detrimental effects of PCE are sex-specific because female offspring do not display psychotic-like outcomes upon exposure to these challenges. Moreover, we present how pregnenolone, a neurosteroid that showed beneficial properties on the effects elicited by cannabis intoxication, normalizes mesolimbic dopamine function and rescues psychotic-like phenotypes. We, therefore, suggest this neurosteroid as a safe "disease-modifying" aid to prevent the onset of psychoses in vulnerable individuals. Our findings corroborate clinical evidence and highlight the relevance of early diagnostic screening and preventative strategies for young individuals at risk for mental diseases, such as male PCE offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
- The Guy Everett Laboratory for Neuroscience, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
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19
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Ramlawi S, Murphy MSQ, Dingwall-Harvey ALJ, Rennicks White R, Gaudet LM, McGee A, DeGrace A, Cantin C, El-Chaâr D, Walker MC, Corsi DJ. Cannabis Use in Pregnancy and Downstream effects on maternal and infant health (CUPiD): a protocol for a birth cohort pilot study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066196. [PMID: 36549747 PMCID: PMC9791409 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis use in pregnancy and post partum is increasing. Accessibility to cannabis has expanded due to the legalisation of cannabis in Canada. Therefore, there is a critical need to monitor the impact of cannabis on pregnancy outcomes and infant neurodevelopment. This pilot study will assess the feasibility of modern recruitment and data collection strategies adapted to the current cannabis environment and inform the design of a multicentre prospective birth cohort. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will establish a pregnancy and birth cohort of 50 cannabis users and 50 non-users recruited before delivery. We will follow the participants at regular visits from recruitment to 12 weeks post partum. Participants will provide demographic and socioeconomic data, report their cannabis use patterns, and provide biological samples. Biological samples include maternal and infant urine and blood, breastmilk/chestmilk, cord blood, cord tissue, placenta and meconium. All samples will be processed and stored at -80°C until analysis by immunoassay or liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to determine the presence of cannabis metabolites. In addition, partners will be invited to provide additional socioeconomic and substance use data. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics was obtained from Ottawa Health Science Network Research Ethics Board through Clinical Trials Ontario (3791). Our findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at scientific conferences and shared broadly with patients, healthcare decision-makers, and project partners online and through social media. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT05309226.Cite Now.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serine Ramlawi
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Malia S Q Murphy
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Ruth Rennicks White
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura M Gaudet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amy McGee
- Division of Midwifery, Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amanda DeGrace
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christina Cantin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
- Champlain Maternal Newborn Regional Program, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Darine El-Chaâr
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark C Walker
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel J Corsi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Current Evidence to Guide Practice, Policy, and Research: Cannabis Use During Pregnancy. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2022; 51:643-650. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
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Brik M, Sandonis M, Gil J, Hernandez‐Fleury A, Parramón‐Puig G, Maiz N, Suy A, Carreras E. Intrauterine cannabis exposure and fetal and maternal blood flow: a case-control study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2022; 101:1207-1214. [PMID: 36039819 PMCID: PMC9812101 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.14439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of pregnancy and neonatal complications. Since the underlying mechanism is unknown, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the changes in maternal and fetal blood flow in pregnancies exposed to cannabis, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). MATERIAL AND METHODS A case-control study between 2013 and 2020, included women with continued cannabis exposure during the pregnancies, defined by qualitative detection of THC in urine (Cannabis Group), and low-risk pregnancy women divided into tobacco smokers (Tobacco Group), and non-tobacco smokers (Control Group). We evaluated the association between cannabis consumption and maternal and fetal blood flow parameters measured by Doppler ultrasound: uterine artery at 11-14, 20-22 and 33-35 weeks, umbilical artery and middle cerebral artery at 33-35 weeks. Cerebral-placental ratio was calculated. RESULTS Overall, 275 participants were included, 60 in the Cannabis Group, 17 in the Tobacco Group and 198 in the Control Group. At 33-35 weeks, differences were found in the umbilical artery pulsatility index (PI) (1.05 ± 0.23, 1.06 ± 0.19, 0.93 ± 0.15, P < 0.01), middle cerebral artery PI (1.75 ± 0.35, 1.90 ± 0.45, 1.88 ± 0.34, P < 0.05), cerebral-placental ratio (1.69 ± 0.40, 1.85 ± 0.53, 2.07 ± 0.47, P < 0.05) and mean uterine artery PI (0.89 ± 0.26, 0.73 ± 0.19, 0.74 ± 0.20, P < 0.01), respectively. On logistic regression analysis, adjusted for maternal age, maternal body mass index, maternal weight and white ethnicity, both cannabis and tobacco were predictors for increased umbilical artery PI, but only cannabis was a predictor for a decreased cerebral-placental ratio and an increased uterine artery PI at 33-35 weeks. CONCLUSIONS Data from a large cohort of continuous cannabis exposure pregnancies show that cannabis is associated with maternal and fetal blood flow changes. However, it is not possible to disentangle the association of the tobacco and cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maia Brik
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Miguel Sandonis
- Psychiatry DepartmentHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain,Department of Psychiatry and Forensic MedicineUniversitat Autònoma de Barcelona, BarcelonaCataloniaSpain
| | - Judit Gil
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Alina Hernandez‐Fleury
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | | | - Nerea Maiz
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Anna Suy
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
| | - Elena Carreras
- Obstetrics Department, Maternal‐Fetal Medicine UnitHospital Universitari Vall d'HebronBarcelonaSpain
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Martínez-Peña AA, Lee K, Pereira M, Ayyash A, Petrik JJ, Hardy DB, Holloway AC. Prenatal Exposure to Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Alters the Expression of miR-122-5p and Its Target Igf1r in the Adult Rat Ovary. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23148000. [PMID: 35887347 PMCID: PMC9323798 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As cannabis use during pregnancy increases, it is important to understand its effects on the developing fetus. Particularly, the long-term effects of its psychoactive component, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), on the offspring’s reproductive health are not fully understood. This study examined the impact of gestational THC exposure on the miRNA profile in adult rat ovaries and the possible consequences on ovarian health. Prenatal THC exposure resulted in the differential expression of 12 out of 420 evaluated miRNAs. From the differentially expressed miRNAs, miR-122-5p, which is highly conserved among species, was the only upregulated target and had the greatest fold change. The upregulation of miR-122-5p and the downregulation of its target insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (Igf1r) were confirmed by RT-qPCR. Prenatally THC-exposed ovaries had decreased IGF-1R-positive follicular cells and increased follicular apoptosis. Furthermore, THC decreased Igf1r expression in ovarian explants and granulosa cells after 48 h. As decreased IGF-1R has been associated with diminished ovarian health and fertility, we propose that these THC-induced changes may partially explain the altered ovarian follicle dynamics observed in THC-exposed offspring. Taken together, our data suggests that prenatal THC exposure may impact key pathways in the developing ovary, which could lead to subfertility or premature reproductive senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annia A. Martínez-Peña
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada; (A.A.M.-P.); (A.A.)
| | - Kendrick Lee
- The Children’s Health Research Institute, The Lawson Health Research Institute, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (K.L.); (D.B.H.)
| | - Madison Pereira
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (M.P.); (J.J.P.)
| | - Ahmed Ayyash
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada; (A.A.M.-P.); (A.A.)
| | - James J. Petrik
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (M.P.); (J.J.P.)
| | - Daniel B. Hardy
- The Children’s Health Research Institute, The Lawson Health Research Institute, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Physiology and Pharmacology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada; (K.L.); (D.B.H.)
| | - Alison C. Holloway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada; (A.A.M.-P.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(905)-525-9140 (ext. 22130)
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English F, Greyson D. "You still have that fear": Policy constraints on informed decision making about legalized cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 106:103774. [PMID: 35772267 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is the most commonly used drug during pregnancy, excluding alcohol and tobacco, in the United States. Cannabis consumption during pregnancy is increasing along with greater legal and social acceptance. METHODS We conducted a qualitative content analysis of 23 in-depth interviews with pregnant and lactating people in Massachusetts, a state that legalized cannabis for adult use in 2016. Our aim was to explore how policy constrains or facilitates people's ability to make informed decisions about cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation. Our analysis was conducted using an ecosocial approach, recognizing that the implementation and interpretation of cannabis policy can be understood at multiple levels, which interact with each other and shape the health and experiences of individuals. Additionally, this analysis was informed by a harm reduction approach in which we acknowledge the complexity surrounding cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation, while attempting to identify ways to reduce potentially harmful consequences. RESULTS Findings revealed that, despite the legal status of cannabis, there continues to be a lack of clarity for pregnant and lactating people regarding the legal implications of cannabis use. Inconsistent state and institutional policies about drug testing of mothers and newborns leave a cloud of fear hanging over the experiences of people who use cannabis and inhibit their ability to obtain expert advice from healthcare providers. CONCLUSION Decision makers in public and institutional policy should work to clarify and update policies regarding substance use during pregnancy following legalization of a new substance, and ensure that pregnant and lactating people are afforded the same legal protections as the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith English
- Department of Health Promotion and Policy 325 Arnold House, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 715 North Pleasant St. Amherst, MA, 01003, USA.
| | - Devon Greyson
- Department of Communication N308 Integrative Learning Center 650 N. Pleasant St. University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, 01003, USA.
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Hawkins SS, Hacker MR. Trends in Use of Conventional Cigarettes, E-cigarettes, and Marijuana in Pregnancy and Impact of Health Policy. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2022; 65:305-318. [PMID: 35125389 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0000000000000690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The substance use policy context continues to evolve. As tobacco control policies have become more restrictive, marijuana legalization has increased access to marijuana. Data suggest that prenatal conventional cigarette use is declining, while e-cigarette and marijuana use are increasing among persons preconception, prenatally, and postpartum. Policy evaluations have found that increasing cigarette taxes reduces prenatal smoking and improves birth outcomes; however, there have been few studies of e-cigarette policies or marijuana legalization on prenatal use or birth outcomes. It is important for clinicians to screen for prenatal substance use, as recommended by American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and understand how policies influence use among their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michele R Hacker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Smith GN, Drabkin M, Pudwell J. Before and After Legalization: Cannabis Use Among Pregnant Patients at a Tertiary Care Center in Ontario. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2022; 44:808-812. [PMID: 35525428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2022.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We compared levels of cannabis and other substance use before and after the legalization of cannabis in the obstetric population of the Kingston General Hospital (KGH). Urine samples were collected from patients admitted to KGH labour and delivery in September/October 2018 and September/October 2019. Urine was anonymously screened for cannabis and other substances. Approximately 9.5%-10% of patients screened positive for cannabis. We found no difference in the prevalence of cannabis use in our sample after legalization. Health care providers should discuss cannabis with patients who are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graeme N Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Kingston General Hospital, Victory 4, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, Ontario, K7M 8Y2.
| | - Meriah Drabkin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Kingston General Hospital, Victory 4, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, Ontario, K7M 8Y2
| | - Jessica Pudwell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario
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Skelton KR, Donahue E, Benjamin-Neelon SE. Validity of self-report measures of cannabis use compared to biological samples among women of reproductive age: a scoping review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:344. [PMID: 35448967 PMCID: PMC9027056 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04677-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most existing evidence about the prevalence of prenatal cannabis use relies on self-reported measures, which is limited by social desirability bias and recall bias. To date, several studies have examined the validity of self-reported measures of prenatal cannabis use, but this evidence has yet to be synthesized. To address this gap, we performed a scoping review to systematically identify and synthesize existing evidence on the validity of self-reported measures of cannabis use among pregnant women. METHODS We searched PubMed, PyschINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane/CENTRAL, and Google Scholar for peer-reviewed studies published in English between January 2010 and June 2021. We included studies that compared self-reported measures of cannabis use to a biochemical measure of cannabis (e.g., urine, hair, meconium) in pregnant women. We excluded studies reporting solely on prenatal cannabis use prevalence as well as those that examined self-reported drug use in which cannabis use was not a distinct category. RESULTS We found 12 unique studies (11 primary studies and one systematic review) that examined the validity of self-reported prenatal cannabis use, compared to a biochemical sample. Most studies were conducted in the US and conducted in either a hospital or clinical setting. We found that self-report was more valid in populations with a current or prior history of drug use. Self-report was also more valid when assessed via interviews by research team members than health care provider screenings or self-administered surveys. The most commonly used biochemical measure used was urine drug testing, which was found to have the highest level of concordance with self-report. CONCLUSIONS This scoping review systematically mapped existing evidence on the validity of self-reported prenatal cannabis use. Although much remains unknown in this area, an important next step is a systematic review that would provide robust evidence on clinical utilization of self-reported use in conjunction with biochemical samples. Further research is needed to examine validity by type of measure and mode of administration. Additionally, future studies could assess factors associated with disclosure of use across different critical maternal health periods beyond pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara R Skelton
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health Professions, 251 Towson Way, Towson, MD, 21204, USA.
| | - Erin Donahue
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science, College of Health Professions, 251 Towson Way, Towson, MD, 21204, USA
| | - Sara E Benjamin-Neelon
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Directive clinique n o 425b : Le cannabis aux différentes périodes de la vie des femmes - Partie 2 : Grossesse, période postnatale et allaitement. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2022; 44:445-454.e1. [PMID: 35400522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2022.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIF Fournir aux fournisseurs de soins les meilleures données probantes sur l'utilisation de cannabis et la santé des femmes. Les domaines d'intérêt sont le dépistage, la dépendance et le sevrage; la communication et la tenue de dossier; la grossesse (y compris les issues fœtales et maternelles); la gestion de la douleur maternelle; les soins postnataux (y compris la fumée secondaire et la parentalité); et l'allaitement. POPULATION CIBLE Femmes enceintes, allaitantes ou qui planifient une grossesse. BéNéFICES, RISQUES ET COûTS: Discuter de l'utilisation de cannabis avec les femmes enceintes, allaitantes ou qui planifient une grossesse les aide à faire des choix éclairés. D'après des données probantes limitées, il faut éviter l'utilisation de cannabis pendant la grossesse ou l'allaitement, ou réduire la consommation au maximum si l'abstention n'est pas un objectif atteignable, étant donné l'absence de données sur l'innocuité et le suivi à long terme des grossesses et nourrissons exposés au cannabis. DONNéES PROBANTES: Les auteurs ont interrogé les bases de données PubMed et Cochrane Library pour extraire des articles sur l'utilisation de cannabis pendant la grossesse et l'allaitement publiés entre le 1er janvier 2018 et le 5 février 2021. Les termes de recherche ont été déterminés à partir de termes de recherche MeSH, de mots clés et de leurs variantes : cannabis, cannabinoids, cannabidiol, CBD, THC, marijuana, edible, pregnancy, pregnant, prenatal, perinatal, postnatal, breastfeed, breastfed, lactation, nursing, fetus, fetal, neonatal, newborn et child. Les auteurs ont inclus toutes les publications des types suivants : essais cliniques, études observationnelles, revues (y compris les revues systématiques et les méta-analyses), directives cliniques et déclarations de conférences de consensus. Les principaux critères d'inclusion étaient les femmes enceintes et allaitantes, comme population cible, et l'exposition au cannabis, comme intervention d'intérêt. MéTHODES DE VALIDATION: Les auteurs ont évalué la qualité des données probantes et la force des recommandations en utilisant le cadre méthodologique d'évaluation, de développement et d'évaluation (GRADE). Voir l'annexe A en ligne (tableau A1 pour les définitions et tableau A2 pour l'interprétation des recommandations fortes et faibles). PROFESSIONNELS CONCERNéS: Tous les fournisseurs de soins de santé qui prodiguent des soins aux femmes en âge de procréer. DÉCLARATIONS SOMMAIRES: RECOMMANDATIONS.
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Graves LE, Robert M, Allen VM, Dama S, Gabrys RL, Tanguay RL, Turner SD, Green CR, Cook JL. Guideline No. 425b: Cannabis Use Throughout Women's Lifespans - Part 2: Pregnancy, the Postnatal Period, and Breastfeeding. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2022; 44:436-444.e1. [PMID: 35400521 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2022.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide health care providers with the best evidence on cannabis use and women's health. Areas of focus include screening, dependence, and withdrawal; communication and documentation; pregnancy (including maternal and fetal outcomes); maternal pain control; postpartum care (including second-hand smoking and parenting); and breastfeeding. TARGET POPULATION The target population includes women who are planning a pregnancy, pregnant, or breastfeeding. BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS Discussing cannabis use with women who are planning a pregnancy, pregnant, or breastfeeding allows them to make informed choices about their cannabis use. Based on the limited evidence, cannabis use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be avoided, or reduced as much as possible if abstaining is not feasible, given the absence of safety and long-term follow up data on cannabis-exposed pregnancies and infants. EVIDENCE PubMed and Cochrane Library databases were searched for articles relevant to cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding published between January 1, 2018, and February 5, 2021. The search terms were developed using the MeSH terms and keywords and their variants, including cannabis, cannabinoids, cannabidiol, CBD, THC, marijuana, edible, pregnancy, pregnant, prenatal, perinatal, postnatal, breastfeed, breastfed, lactation, nursing, fetus, fetal, neonatal, newborn, and child. In terms of publication type, all clinical trials, observational studies, reviews (including systematic reviews and meta-analyses), guidelines, and conference consensus statements were included. The main inclusion criteria were pregnant and breastfeeding women as the target population, and exposure to cannabis as the intervention of interest. VALIDATION METHODS The authors rated the quality of evidence and strength of recommendations using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. See online Appendix A (Tables A1 for definitions and A2 for interpretations of strong and weak recommendations). INTENDED AUDIENCE All health care providers who care for women of reproductive age. SUMMARY STATEMENTS RECOMMENDATIONS.
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Skelton KR, Donahue E, Benjamin-Neelon SE. Measuring cannabis-related knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, motivations, and influences among women of reproductive age: a scoping review. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:95. [PMID: 35346156 PMCID: PMC8961997 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-01673-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cannabis use among women of reproductive age has increased substantially in recent decades. Understanding reasons for cannabis use in this population is critical for cannabis use prevention efforts. Thus, this scoping review aimed to identify and synthesize current measures on reasons for cannabis use in women of reproductive age. Methods We searched PubMed, PyschINFO, CINAHL, and Google Scholar for relevant studies published in English between January 2010 and April 2021. Peer-reviewed, quantitative studies reporting on measures of cannabis-related knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, motivations, and influences among women of reproductive age were eligible for inclusion. We excluded studies not focused on women of reproductive age and studies reporting cannabis use prevalence data only. Results We included 11 studies (10 primary studies and 1 review) with varying subpopulation samples of women, including non-pregnant women (n = 2), women experiencing infertility (n = 1), pregnant women (n = 4), postpartum women (n = 3), and women in the perinatal period (n = 1). Measurement topic areas included information received from health care professionals, attitudes, perceptions and experiences about cannabis use, knowledge of potential harms, and motivations for cannabis use. Most studies including measures of risk perceptions were conducted among pregnant or postpartum women (n = 4). A single study measured influences of cannabis use; no studies measured social or peer influences of use. Most studies (n = 7) created their own measures, with 2 studies using secondary data via measures from population-based surveillance systems in the United States, and one using a previously validated instrument. Recommendations for future research were centered around addressing knowledge gaps of health effects of cannabis use across different time periods, and etiology of cannabis use. Conclusions We found vast measurement gaps in current measures of antecedents of cannabis use among women of reproductive age, providing clear direction for future research in this area. Findings necessitate psychometric evaluation of existing measures to ascertain validity and reliability, as well as development of additional measures of women’s cannabis-related attitudes, perceptions, motivations, and influences. This work is critical to guide not only epidemiologic studies, but cannabis-related prevention work as well. Supplementary information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12905-022-01673-6.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara R Skelton
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health Professions, 251 Towson Way, Towson, MD, 21204, USA.
| | - Erin Donahue
- Department of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Science, College of Health Professions, 251 Towson Way, Towson, MD, 21204, USA
| | - Sara E Benjamin-Neelon
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
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Gómez-Ruiz LM, Marchei E, Rotolo MC, Brunetti P, Mannocchi G, Acosta-López A, Ramos-Gutiérrez RY, Varela-Busaka MB, Pichini S, Garcia-Algar O. Prevalence of Licit and Illicit Drugs Use during Pregnancy in Mexican Women. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15030382. [PMID: 35337179 PMCID: PMC8953434 DOI: 10.3390/ph15030382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
For the first time, the present study employed hair testing to investigate the prevalence of classical drugs of abuse and new psychoactive substances use during gestation in a cohort of 300 Mexican pregnant women. An interview was conducted to collect data on sociodemographic aspects of the patients, and a 9 cm-long hair strand was taken from the back of the head of each mother one month after delivery. A validated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography−high-resolution mass spectrometry method was used for the screening of classic drugs, new psychoactive substances, and medications in maternal hair. Out of 300 examined hair samples from pregnant women, 127 (42.3%) resulted positive for psychoactive substances: 45 (35.4%) for cannabis only, 24 (18.9%) for methamphetamine only, 13 (10.2%) for cocaine only, 1 (0.3%) for heroin, 1 for N-N-dimethyltryptamine (0.3%), 1 for ketamine (0.8%), and 35 (16.3%) for more than one psychoactive substance. Furthermore, seven samples (2.3%) resulted positive for new psychoactive substances (NPS): two samples for synthetic cannabinoids, two for synthetic cathinones, and three for nor-fentanyl, and 3.3% of women hair resulted positive for anticonvulsant, antidepressant, and antipsychotic medications. Finally, 83 women hair samples (27.7%) tested positive for nicotine. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other painkillers (60.0%), medications for the treatment of nausea and vomiting (12.3%), antihistamines (8.7%) and nasal/sinus decongestants (6.7%), cough suppressants (5.0%), and bronchodilator agents (5.0%) were also detected in pregnant women hair. The gestational use of psychoactive substances and exposure to tobacco smoke, assessed by hair testing, were associated with a significantly younger age and with a low education grade of the mothers (p < 0.005). This study provides a significant preliminary indication of the under-reported gestational consumption of licit and illicit psychoactive and pharmacologically active drugs in a Mexican environment, showing the value of toxicological and forensic analyses in the global effort to determine the health risks caused by classic drugs and new psychoactive substances during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa-María Gómez-Ruiz
- Servicio de Neonatología, División de Pediatría, Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca”, Guadalajara 44600, Mexico; (L.-M.G.-R.); (A.A.-L.); (R.-Y.R.-G.); (M.-B.V.-B.)
- Departamento de Cirugía y Especialidades Médico-Quirúrgicas, Universidad de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Emilia Marchei
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), V.Le Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Maria Concetta Rotolo
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), V.Le Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.M.); (M.C.R.)
| | - Pietro Brunetti
- Unit of Forensic Toxicology, Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Excellence of Biomedical Scienc-Es and Public Health, Marche Polytechnic University, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | | | - Aracely Acosta-López
- Servicio de Neonatología, División de Pediatría, Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca”, Guadalajara 44600, Mexico; (L.-M.G.-R.); (A.A.-L.); (R.-Y.R.-G.); (M.-B.V.-B.)
| | - Ruth-Yesica Ramos-Gutiérrez
- Servicio de Neonatología, División de Pediatría, Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca”, Guadalajara 44600, Mexico; (L.-M.G.-R.); (A.A.-L.); (R.-Y.R.-G.); (M.-B.V.-B.)
| | - Mary-Buhya Varela-Busaka
- Servicio de Neonatología, División de Pediatría, Nuevo Hospital Civil de Guadalajara “Dr. Juan I. Menchaca”, Guadalajara 44600, Mexico; (L.-M.G.-R.); (A.A.-L.); (R.-Y.R.-G.); (M.-B.V.-B.)
| | - Simona Pichini
- National Centre on Addiction and Doping, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), V.Le Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (E.M.); (M.C.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-064990-6545
| | - Oscar Garcia-Algar
- Departamento de Cirugía y Especialidades Médico-Quirúrgicas, Universidad de Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain;
- Neonatology Unit, Hospital Clinic-Maternitat, ICGON, BCNatal, C/Sabino Arana 1, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Koto P, Allen VM, Fahey J, Kuhle S. Maternal cannabis use during pregnancy and maternal and neonatal outcomes: A retrospective cohort study. BJOG 2022; 129:1687-1694. [PMID: 35118787 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between reported prenatal cannabis use and neonatal and maternal outcomes and whether the legalisation of cannabis in Canada affected the rates of reported use or the association with maternal and neonatal outcomes. DESIGN Population-based retrospective cohort study. SETTING Routinely collected data in a real-world setting. POPULATION All women in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia with singleton births between 1 January 2004 and 30 June 2021. METHODS The association between cannabis use and maternal and neonatal outcomes was examined using generalised linear models with inverse probability weighting. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Maternal and neonatal outcomes in the peripartum and postpartum period. RESULTS Rates of reported cannabis use in pregnancy increased from 1.3% to 7.5% over the study period with no appreciable change in slope after legalisation in 2018. Infants of mothers reporting cannabis use in pregnancy were more likely to have major anomalies and a 5-minute Apgar score ≤7, require neonatal intensive care unit admission, and had lower birthweight, head circumference and birth length than infants of mothers not reporting cannabis use. These associations did not differ before and after legalisation. CONCLUSIONS Reported cannabis use during pregnancy is associated with early postnatal complications and reduced fetal growth, even after taking into account a range of confounding factors. Rates of reported cannabis use during pregnancy increased over the past 5 years in Nova Scotia with no apparent additional effect of legalisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper Koto
- Research Methods Unit, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Victoria M Allen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - John Fahey
- Reproductive Care Programme of Nova Scotia, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Stefan Kuhle
- Perinatal Epidemiology Research Unit, Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Paediatrics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Applications of Cannabis Sativa L. in Food and Its Therapeutic Potential: From a Prohibited Drug to a Nutritional Supplement. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26247699. [PMID: 34946779 PMCID: PMC8708517 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26247699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a herbaceous anemophilous plant that belongs to the Cannabinaceae family. The cannabis seed (hemp) has long been utilized as a food source and is commercially important as an edible oil source. In this review, the positive and negative health effects of cannabis, the relationship between cannabis and various diseases, and the use of cannabis in various food products have been discussed. In addition, the scientific literature on the potential use of cannabis and its derivatives as a dietary supplement for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory and chronic degenerative diseases in animals and humans has been reviewed. Cannabis is being developed as a key ingredient in a variety of food items, including bakery, confectionery, beverages, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and meat. Hemp seeds are high in readily digestible proteins, lipids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), insoluble fiber, carbs, and favorable omega-6 PUFA acid to omega-3 PUFA ratio and have high nutritional value. The antioxidants of cannabis, such as polyphenols, help with anxiety, oxidative stress, and the risk of chronic illnesses, including cancer, neurological disorders, digestive problems, and skin diseases. Cannabis has been shown to have negative health impacts on the respiratory system, driving, and psychomotor functions, and the reproductive system. Overall, the purpose of this research is to stimulate more in-depth research on cannabis's adaptation in various foods and for the treatment of chronic illnesses.
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Yee LM, Kacanek D, Brightwell C, Haddad LB, Jao J, Powis KM, Yao TJ, Barr E, Broadwell C, Siminski S, Seage GR, Chadwick EG. Marijuana, Opioid, and Alcohol Use Among Pregnant and Postpartum Individuals Living With HIV in the US. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e2137162. [PMID: 34860242 PMCID: PMC8642784 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.37162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance Amid the opioid epidemic and evolving legal and social changes with marijuana, little is known about substance use among pregnant and postpartum people living with HIV. Objectives To evaluate trends in marijuana, alcohol, and opioid use during pregnancy and the first year postpartum among US people living with HIV and the differences in substance use based on marijuana legalization status. Design, Setting, and Participants Data from the Surveillance Monitoring for Antiretroviral Toxicities (SMARTT) study of the Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study were analyzed. SMARTT-enrolled, pregnant people living with HIV at 22 US sites from January 1, 2007, to July 1, 2019, with self-reported substance use data available in pregnancy, 1 year postpartum, or both were assessed. Exposures Calendar year and state marijuana legalization status. Main Outcomes and Measures The prevalence of any use of each of the following substances was calculated by calendar year, separately for pregnancy and postpartum: marijuana, alcohol, opioid, and concomitant alcohol and marijuana. Log binomial models were fit using general estimating equations to evaluate the mean annual change, accounting for repeat pregnancies. The study also evaluated differences in substance use by state recreational or medical marijuana legalization status. Results Substance use data were available for 2926 pregnancies from 2310 people living with HIV (mean [SD] age, 28.8 [6.1] years; 822 [28.1%] Hispanic, 1859 [63.5%] non-Hispanic Black, 185 [6.3%] White, 24 [0.8%] of more than 1 race, 24 [0.8%] of other race or ethnicity [individuals who identified as American Indian, Asian, or Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander], and 12 [0.4%] with unknown or unreported race or ethnicity). Between 2007 and 2019, marijuana use during pregnancy increased from 7.1% to 11.7%, whereas alcohol and opioid use in pregnancy were unchanged. Postpartum alcohol (44.4%), marijuana (13.6%), and concomitant alcohol and marijuana (10.0%) use were common; marijuana use increased from 10.2% to 23.7% from 2007 to 2019, whereas postpartum alcohol use was unchanged. The adjusted mean risk of marijuana use increased by 7% (95% CI, 3%-10%) per year during pregnancy and 11% (95% CI, 7%-16%) per year postpartum. Postpartum concomitant alcohol and marijuana use increased by 10% (95% CI, 5%-15%) per year. Differences in substance use were not associated with recreational legalization, but increased marijuana use was associated with medical marijuana legalization. Conclusions and Relevance In this cohort study, opioid use among pregnant people living with HIV remained stable, whereas marijuana use during pregnancy and postpartum increased over time and in states with legalized medical marijuana. These patterns of increasing marijuana use among pregnant and postpartum people living with HIV suggest that enhanced clinical attention is warranted, given the potential maternal and child health implications of substance use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn M. Yee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Deborah Kacanek
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Chase Brightwell
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lisa B. Haddad
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York
| | - Jennifer Jao
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kathleen M. Powis
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tzy-Jyun Yao
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Emily Barr
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora
| | - Carly Broadwell
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - George R. Seage
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ellen G. Chadwick
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
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Lee K, Hardy DB. Metabolic Consequences of Gestational Cannabinoid Exposure. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9528. [PMID: 34502436 PMCID: PMC8430813 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to 20% of pregnant women ages 18-24 consume cannabis during pregnancy. Moreover, clinical studies indicate that cannabis consumption during pregnancy leads to fetal growth restriction (FGR), which is associated with an increased risk of obesity, type II diabetes (T2D), and cardiovascular disease in the offspring. This is of great concern considering that the concentration of Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), a major psychoactive component of cannabis, has doubled over the last decade and can readily cross the placenta and enter fetal circulation, with the potential to negatively impact fetal development via the endocannabinoid (eCB) system. Cannabis exposure in utero could also lead to FGR via placental insufficiency. In this review, we aim to examine current pre-clinical and clinical findings on the direct effects of exposure to cannabis and its constituents on fetal development as well as indirect effects, namely placental insufficiency, on postnatal metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kendrick Lee
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada;
- The Children’s Health Research Institute, The Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Daniel B. Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada;
- The Children’s Health Research Institute, The Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
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The Impact of Early Life Exposure to Cannabis: The Role of the Endocannabinoid System. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168576. [PMID: 34445282 PMCID: PMC8395329 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use during pregnancy has continued to rise, particularly in developed countries, as a result of the trend towards legalization and lack of consistent, evidence-based knowledge on the matter. While there is conflicting data regarding whether cannabis use during pregnancy leads to adverse outcomes such as stillbirth, preterm birth, low birthweight, or increased admission to neonatal intensive care units, investigations into long-term effects on the offspring’s health are limited. Historically, studies have focused on the neurobehavioral effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on the offspring. The effects of cannabis on other physiological aspects of the developing fetus have received less attention. Importantly, our knowledge about cannabinoid signaling in the placenta is also limited. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is present at early stages of development and represents a potential target for exogenous cannabinoids in utero. The ECS is expressed in a broad range of tissues and influences a spectrum of cellular functions. The aim of this review is to explore the current evidence surrounding the effects of prenatal exposure to cannabinoids and the role of the ECS in the placenta and the developing fetus.
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Bandoli G, Jelliffe-Pawlowski L, Schumacher B, Baer RJ, Felder JN, Fuchs JD, Oltman SP, Steurer MA, Marienfeld C. Cannabis-related diagnosis in pregnancy and adverse maternal and infant outcomes. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 225:108757. [PMID: 34049105 PMCID: PMC8282693 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use and cannabis use disorders are increasing in prevalence, including among pregnant women. The objective was to evaluate the association of a cannabis-related diagnosis (CRD) in pregnancy and adverse maternal and infant outcomes. METHODS We queried an administrative birth cohort of singleton deliveries in California between 2011-2017 linked to maternal and infant hospital discharge records. We classified pregnancies with CRD from International Classification of Disease codes. We identified nicotine and other substance-related diagnoses (SRD) in the same manner. Outcomes of interest included maternal (hypertensive disorders) and infant (prematurity, small for gestational age, NICU admission, major structural malformations) adverse outcomes. RESULTS From 3,067,069 pregnancies resulting in live births, 29,112 (1.0 %) had a CRD. CRD was associated with an increased risk of all outcomes studied; the strongest risks observed were for very preterm birth (aRR 1.4, 95 % CI 1.3, 1.6) and small for gestational age (aRR 1.4, 95 % CI 1.3, 1.4). When analyzed with or without co-exposure diagnoses, CRD alone conferred increased risk for all outcomes compared to no use. The strongest effects were seen for CRD with other SRD (preterm birth aRR 2.3, 95 % CI 2.2, 2.5; very preterm birth aRR 2.6, 95 % CI 2.3, 3.0; gastrointestinal malformations aRR 2.0, 95 % CI 1.6, 2.6). The findings were generally robust to unmeasured confounding and misclassification analyses. CONCLUSIONS CRD in pregnancy was associated with increased risk of adverse maternal and infant outcomes. Providing education and effective treatment for women with a CRD during prenatal care may improve maternal and infant health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen Bandoli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States; Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States.
| | - Laura Jelliffe-Pawlowski
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Benjamin Schumacher
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Rebecca J Baer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States; California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jennifer N Felder
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Osher Center for Integrative Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Jonathan D Fuchs
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Scott P Oltman
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Martina A Steurer
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Carla Marienfeld
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Reproduction and Fertility: Where We Stand. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2429-2439. [PMID: 33970442 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00588-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Although cannabis use is increasing in general population, their prevalence among young adults is remarkably high. In recent years, their medical use gained a renewed interest. However, it can underline the reputation of cannabis being a harmless drug. Between cannabinoids, uniquely found on the cannabis plant, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the well-studied compound. It is responsible for the psychoactive effects via central cannabinoid receptors. Nevertheless, cannabinoids interact with other chemical signalling systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. THC indirectly decreases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion by the hypothalamus. The consequences are diverse, and several key hormones are affected. THC disturbs important reproductive events like folliculogenesis, ovulation and sperm maturation and function. Although generally accepted that cannabinoid consumption impacts male and female fertility, prevailing evidence remains largely on pre-clinical studies. Here, we introduce cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system, and we review the most prominent clinical evidence about cannabis consumption in reproductive potential and teratogenicity.
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38
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Wouldes TA, Crawford A, Stevens S, Stasiak K. Evidence for the Effectiveness and Acceptability of e-SBI or e-SBIRT in the Management of Alcohol and Illicit Substance Use in Pregnant and Post-partum Women. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:634805. [PMID: 34025470 PMCID: PMC8131659 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.634805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol and illicit psychoactive drug use during pregnancy have increased worldwide, putting women and their children's health and development at risk. Multiple drug use, comorbid psychiatric disorders, sexual and physical abuse are common in women who use alcohol and drugs during pregnancy. The effects on the mother include poor reproductive and life-long health, legal, family, and social problems. Additionally, the exposed child is at increased risk of long-term physical health, mental health, and developmental problems. The stigma associated with substance use during pregnancy and some clinicians' reticence to inquire about substance use means many women are not receiving adequate prenatal, substance abuse, and mental health care. Evidence for mHealth apps to provide health care for pregnant and post-partum women reveal the usability and effectiveness of these apps to reduce gestational weight gain, improve nutrition, promote smoking cessation and manage gestational diabetes mellitus, and treat depression and anxiety. Emerging evidence suggests mHealth technology using a public health approach of electronic screening, brief intervention, or referral to treatment (e-SBIRT) for substance use or abuse can overcome the typical barriers preventing women from receiving treatment for alcohol and drug use during pregnancy. This brief intervention delivered through a mobile device may be equally effective as SBIRT delivered by a health care professional in preventing maternal drug use, minimizing the effects to the exposed child, and providing a pathway to therapeutic options for a substance use disorder. However, larger studies in more diverse settings with women who have co-morbid mental illness and a constellation of social risk factors that are frequently associated with substance use disorders are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trecia A Wouldes
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andi Crawford
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Te Ara Manapou, Parenting and Pregnancy Service, Hawke's Bay District Health Board, Hastings, New Zealand
| | - Suzanne Stevens
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Karolina Stasiak
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Sagheddu C, Traccis F, Serra V, Congiu M, Frau R, Cheer JF, Melis M. Mesolimbic dopamine dysregulation as a signature of information processing deficits imposed by prenatal THC exposure. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 105:110128. [PMID: 33031862 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.110128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis is the illicit drug most widely used by pregnant women worldwide. Its growing acceptance and legalization have markedly increased the risks of child psychopathology, including psychotic-like experiences, which lowers the age of onset for a first psychotic episode. As the majority of patients with schizophrenia go through a premorbid condition long before this occurs, understanding neurobiological underpinnings of the prodromal stage of the disease is critical to improving illness trajectories and therapeutic outcomes. We have previously shown that male rat offspring prenatally exposed to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a rat model of prenatal cannabinoid exposure (PCE), exhibit extensive molecular and synaptic changes in dopaminergic neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA), converging on a hyperdopaminergic state. This leads to a silent psychotic-like endophenotype that is unmasked by a single exposure to THC. Here, we further characterized the VTA dopamine neuron and sensorimotor gating functions of PCE rats exposed to acute stress or a challenge of the D2 receptor agonist apomorphine, by using in vivo single-unit extracellular recordings and Prepulse Inhibition (PPI) analyses. At pre-puberty, PCE male rat offspring display a reduced population activity of VTA dopamine neurons in vivo, the majority of which are tonically active. PCE male progeny also exhibit enhanced sensitivity to dopamine D2 (DAD2) receptor activation and a vulnerability to acute stress, which is associated with compromised sensorimotor gating functions. This data extends our knowledge of the multifaceted sequelae imposed by PCE in the mesolimbic dopamine system of male pre-adolescent rats, which renders a neural substrate highly susceptible to subsequent challenges that may trigger psychotic-like outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Francesco Traccis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Valeria Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Mauro Congiu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Joseph F Cheer
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy.
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40
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Traccis F, Serra V, Sagheddu C, Congiu M, Saba P, Giua G, Devoto P, Frau R, Cheer JF, Melis M. Prenatal THC Does Not Affect Female Mesolimbic Dopaminergic System in Preadolescent Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041666. [PMID: 33562259 PMCID: PMC7914408 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use among pregnant women is increasing worldwide along with permissive sociocultural attitudes toward it. Prenatal cannabis exposure (PCE), however, is associated with adverse outcome among offspring, ranging from reduced birth weight to child psychopathology. We have previously shown that male rat offspring prenatally exposed to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a rat model of PCE, exhibit extensive molecular, cellular, and synaptic changes in dopamine neurons of the ventral tegmental area (VTA), resulting in a susceptible mesolimbic dopamine system associated with a psychotic-like endophenotype. This phenotype only reveals itself upon a single exposure to THC in males but not females. Here, we characterized the impact of PCE on female behaviors and mesolimbic dopamine system function by combining in vivo single-unit extracellular recordings in anesthetized animals and ex vivo patch clamp recordings, along with neurochemical and behavioral analyses. We find that PCE female offspring do not show any spontaneous or THC-induced behavioral disease-relevant phenotypes. The THC-induced increase in dopamine levels in nucleus accumbens was reduced in PCE female offspring, even when VTA dopamine activity in vivo and ex vivo did not differ compared to control. These findings indicate that PCE impacts mesolimbic dopamine function and its related behavioral domains in a sex-dependent manner and warrant further investigations to decipher the mechanisms determining this sex-related protective effect from intrauterine THC exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Traccis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Valeria Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Claudia Sagheddu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Mauro Congiu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Pierluigi Saba
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Gabriele Giua
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Paola Devoto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Roberto Frau
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
| | - Joseph Francois Cheer
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Miriam Melis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Monserrato, Italy; (F.T.); (V.S.); (C.S.); (M.C.); (P.S.); (G.G.); (P.D.); (R.F.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-070-675-4322
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Skelton KR, Hecht AA, Benjamin-Neelon SE. Association of Recreational Cannabis Legalization With Maternal Cannabis Use in the Preconception, Prenatal, and Postpartum Periods. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e210138. [PMID: 33630088 PMCID: PMC7907954 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.0138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Recent studies have revealed increases in population-level cannabis use after legalization of recreational cannabis. However, the association of cannabis legalization with maternal cannabis use during important life stages remains unknown. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association of legalization of recreational cannabis with maternal cannabis use during the preconception, prenatal, and postpartum periods. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This repeated cross-sectional study used state-level data on women who delivered live-born infants in the US from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System from January 2004 to December 2018. Data from 2 states that had legalized recreational cannabis (Alaska and Maine) and 2 states that had not legalized recreational cannabis (New Hampshire and Vermont) were used. Women completed surveys 2 to 6 months after delivery, reporting preconception, prenatal, and postpartum cannabis use. EXPOSURE State recreational cannabis legalization. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The 3 primary outcomes were self-reported cannabis use during the 12 months before pregnancy (preconception), during pregnancy (prenatal), and the 2 to 6 months after pregnancy (postpartum). A difference-in-differences analysis was used to compare changes in the prevalence of maternal cannabis use during each period before and after state legalization of recreational cannabis, controlling for maternal characteristics (age, race/ethnicity, educational level, income, cigarette smoking, and breastfeeding) and state fixed effects. State-specific survey weights were used. RESULTS The analytic sample included 23 082 women in the preconception period, 23 859 in the prenatal period, and 26 610 in the postpartum period. In each analysis, most women were married (range among all groups, 63.9%-64.8%), aged 25 to 34 years (preconception, 55.4%; prenatal, 55.9%; postpartum, 56.1%), and had an annual household income less than $50 000 (preconception, 55.7%; prenatal, 56.3%; postpartum, 55.5%). In adjusted analyses, preconception and postpartum cannabis use increased significantly in states that had legalized recreational cannabis compared with states that had not legalized it (preconception risk difference, 0.0457 [95% CI, 0.0013-0.0900]; P = .04; postpartum risk difference, 0.0539 [95% CI, 0.0259-0.0818]; P < .001). The risk difference for prenatal cannabis use was not significant (0.0070; 95% CI, -0.0120 to 0.0260; P = .47). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this repeated cross-sectional study, recreational cannabis legalization was associated with changes in maternal cannabis use before and after pregnancy. The findings suggest that future studies should undertake an interdisciplinary approach to maximize benefit and application of findings to future public health, health care, and policy sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara R. Skelton
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Health Sciences, Towson University College of Health Professions, Towson, Maryland
| | - Amelie A. Hecht
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sara E. Benjamin-Neelon
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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Gestational exposure to Δ 9-THC impacts ovarian follicular dynamics and angiogenesis in adulthood in Wistar rats. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2021; 12:865-869. [PMID: 33407988 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420001282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
With the legalization of marijuana (Cannabis sativa) and increasing use during pregnancy, it is important to understand its impact on exposed offspring. Specifically, the effects of Δ-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the major psychoactive component of cannabis, on fetal ovarian development and long-term reproductive health are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of prenatal exposure to Δ9-THC on ovarian health in adult rat offspring. At 6 months of age, Δ9-THC-exposed offspring had accelerated folliculogenesis with apparent follicular development arrest, but no persistent effects on circulating steroid levels. Ovaries from Δ9-THC-exposed offspring had reduced blood vessel density in association with decreased expression of the pro-angiogenic factor VEGF and its receptor VEGFR-2, as well as an increase in the anti-angiogenic factor thrombospondin 1 (TSP-1). Collectively, these data suggest that exposure to Δ9-THC during pregnancy alters follicular dynamics during postnatal life, which may have long-lasting detrimental effects on female reproductive health.
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Odom GC, Cottler LB, Striley CW, Lopez-Quintero C. Perceived Risk of Weekly Cannabis Use, Past 30-Day Cannabis Use, and Frequency of Cannabis Use Among Pregnant Women in the United States. Int J Womens Health 2020; 12:1075-1088. [PMID: 33235517 PMCID: PMC7678496 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s266540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While accumulated evidence has shown that the prevalence of cannabis use among pregnant women in the US has increased in recent years, little is known about the specific subpopulations affected. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and correlates of the perceived risk of weekly cannabis use, past 30-day cannabis use, and frequency of past 30-day cannabis use among US pregnant women. METHODS We analyzed data from 2,247 pregnant women 14 to 44 years of age surveyed in the 2015 to 2017 cross-sectional National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Analyses account for the sampling design. Primary outcomes included perceived risk of weekly cannabis use, past 30-day cannabis use, and frequency of cannabis use. We conducted multivariable logistic and negative binomial regression models to assess the associations between the primary outcomes and multiple correlates. RESULTS Among US pregnant women, 21.6% (95% CI=19.4, 23.8) did not perceive any risk associated with weekly cannabis use, 5.3% (95% CI=4.2, 6.5) used cannabis in the past 30 days, and among past-month users, the average number of days of use was 15.6 (95% CI=13.5, 17.7). Pregnant women living below the poverty line were both more likely to perceive no risk of weekly cannabis use (aOR=1.8; 95% CI=1.3, 2.5) and use cannabis more often in the past 30 days (aOR=2.9; 95% CI=1.5, 5.7) than pregnant women within an income bracket of more than two times the federal poverty threshold. Age, race, trimester of pregnancy, co-use of tobacco and/or alcohol were also associated with these outcomes. CONCLUSION Younger age, living in poverty, early trimester of pregnancy, and co-use of tobacco and/or alcohol increased the odds of cannabis use among pregnant women. As cannabis legalization spreads and cannabis use is increasingly perceived as safe, there is a growing need for research to determine the reasons why women in the identified at-risk subgroups are using cannabis during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gage C Odom
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL32611, USA
| | - Linda B Cottler
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL32611, USA
| | - Catherine W Striley
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL32611, USA
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Grant KS, Conover E, Chambers CD. Update on the developmental consequences of cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:1126-1138. [PMID: 32770666 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There is a strong increase in prevalence trends for cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation as more states legalize use of this drug. Information on the teratogenic risk of cannabis is limited but some important themes can be gleaned. Studies have not found a unique phenotypic signature of prenatal exposure but an increased risk of congenital anomalies, particularly gastroschisis, has been reported. Changes in fetal growth have been described in some epidemiological studies but long-term patterns of physical growth appear unaffected. Prenatal exposure to cannabis is not generally associated with reductions in global IQ but specific cognitive skills, especially attention and memory, can be negatively impacted. Long-term impacts on psychological health include increased rates of depressive symptoms and anxiety as well as delinquency. Relatively little is known about the risk of maternal cannabis use during lactation but data suggest that infant exposure is relatively low compared to maternal exposure. As delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels increase to meet consumer demand and routes of exposure diversify, there is a strong need for prospective birth-cohort studies that collect biological samples to quantify exposure. Data from such studies will be critical to overcoming the weaknesses of past cannabis research and are essential to establishing reliable information on the risks of maternal use. Until that time, health care providers should be encouraged to talk about the risks and benefits associated with cannabis use during pregnancy and lactation with their patients, emphasizing that fetal and neonatal risks cannot be excluded at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly S Grant
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA.,Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elizabeth Conover
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Christina D Chambers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Weisbeck SJ, Bright KS, Ginn CS, Smith JM, Hayden KA, Ringham C. Perceptions about cannabis use during pregnancy: a rapid best-framework qualitative synthesis. Canadian Journal of Public Health 2020; 112:49-59. [PMID: 32754880 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-020-00346-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A rapid review was conducted in order to produce a streamlined and time-limited systematic evidence review to understand women's perceptions, beliefs, and knowledge of the risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy. METHODS MEDLINE(R) and Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations and Daily, EMBASE, PsycINFO (OVID interface), and CINAHL (Ebsco interface) databases were searched from inception to March 2019. Qualitative and descriptive studies, and reviews that addressed pregnant women's perceptions, beliefs, and attitudes about personal cannabis use were included. The methodological quality of the included studies was appraised using valid tools and data extraction was guided by suitable checklists. Full text of 18 citations was retrieved and reviewed, and 5 studies met the inclusion criteria. SYNTHESIS Women who continued to use cannabis during pregnancy often perceived less risk compared with nonusers. Their uncertainty regarding adverse consequences, perceived therapeutic effects, and lack of communication with health care providers contributed to cannabis use. Women perceived this lack of counselling as an indication that outcomes of cannabis use while pregnant were not significant. CONCLUSION This synthesis highlights important factors in women's decision-making processes regarding use or cessation of cannabis during pregnancy. In addition, the importance of health care providers providing information, education, and appropriate counselling to childbearing women is highlighted as these conversations may influence women's perceptions of risk and help them make informed choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Weisbeck
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Katherine S Bright
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Carla S Ginn
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
| | - Jacqueline M Smith
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - K Alix Hayden
- Libraries and Cultural Resources, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W, Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Catherine Ringham
- Faculty of Nursing, Alberta Health Services, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W, Calgary, AB, T3N 1N4, Canada
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Nashed MG, Hardy DB, Laviolette SR. Prenatal Cannabinoid Exposure: Emerging Evidence of Physiological and Neuropsychiatric Abnormalities. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:624275. [PMID: 33519564 PMCID: PMC7841012 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.624275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical reports of cannabis use prevalence during pregnancy vary widely from 3% to upwards of 35% in North America; this disparity likely owing to underestimates from self-reporting in many cases. The rise in cannabis use is mirrored by increasing global legalization and the overall perceptions of safety, even during pregnancy. These trends are further compounded by a lack of evidence-based policy and guidelines for prenatal cannabis use, which has led to inconsistent messaging by healthcare providers and medically licensed cannabis dispensaries regarding prenatal cannabis use for treatment of symptoms, such as nausea. Additionally, the use of cannabis to self-medicate depression and anxiety during pregnancy is a growing medical concern. This review aims to summarize recent findings of clinical and preclinical data on neonatal outcomes, as well as long-term physiological and neurodevelopmental outcomes of prenatal cannabis exposure. Although many of the outcomes under investigation have produced mixed results, we consider these data in light of the unique challenges facing cannabis research. In particular, the limited longitudinal clinical studies available have not previously accounted for the exponential increase in (-)-Δ9- tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC; the psychoactive compound in cannabis) concentrations found in cannabis over the past two decades. Polydrug use and the long-term effects of individual cannabis constituents [Δ9-THC vs. cannabidiol (CBD)] are also understudied, along with sex-dependent outcomes. Despite these limitations, prenatal cannabis exposure has been linked to low birth weight, and emerging evidence suggests that prenatal exposure to Δ9-THC, which crosses the placenta and impacts placental development, may have wide-ranging physiological and neurodevelopmental consequences. The long-term effects of these changes require more rigorous investigation, though early reports suggest Δ9-THC increases the risk of cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric disease, including psychosis, depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. In light of the current trends in the perception and use of cannabis during pregnancy, we emphasize the social and medical imperative for more rigorous investigation of the long-term effects of prenatal cannabis exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina G Nashed
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Daniel B Hardy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Steven R Laviolette
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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