Effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on child development and behavior
Official title: Prenatal Cannabis: Effects on Developmental Milestones, Disinhibition, and Substance Initiation
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10899238 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how being exposed to cannabis before birth might affect children's growth and behavior as they get older, comparing kids who were exposed to those who weren't, to help find ways to support their development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $37,308 |
| NIH project number | 1R36DA061555-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899238 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women who use cannabis and their children, particularly those from infancy to adolescence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to cannabis during pregnancy or those outside the age range of the study may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to cannabis during pregnancy affects children's developmental milestones and behavioral issues as they grow. It aims to compare the development of children exposed to cannabis in utero with those who were not, focusing on key developmental stages from infancy to adolescence. The study will utilize data from a large national study to assess the impact of prenatal cannabis exposure on motor skills and behavioral disinhibition, which may influence later substance use. By understanding these effects, the research seeks to identify potential clinical markers for early intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights that help in developing strategies to mitigate the negative effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on child development.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated potential risks associated with prenatal substance exposure, suggesting that this area of investigation is both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ikeda, Ami Sala — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Ikeda, Ami Sala
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.