How prenatal cannabis exposure affects children's heart and metabolic health

Prenatal exposure to cannabis and child cardiometabolic health outcomes

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10949543

This study is looking at how using cannabis during pregnancy might affect the health and growth of children up to age 5, so if you're a parent or expecting, this research could help us understand any risks or benefits related to cannabis use while pregnant.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10949543 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of cannabis exposure during pregnancy on the cardiometabolic health of children. It aims to understand how different cannabinoids, such as delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), influence growth patterns and health outcomes in children up to age 5. The study will analyze data from a Colorado-based cohort to identify potential risks and protective factors associated with prenatal cannabis use. By examining these relationships, the research seeks to fill knowledge gaps regarding the long-term health implications for children exposed to cannabis in utero.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals who have used cannabis during their pregnancy or are considering its use.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to cannabis during pregnancy or those whose children are older than 5 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the health risks associated with prenatal cannabis exposure, potentially guiding public health recommendations for pregnant individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown associations between prenatal cannabis exposure and adverse health outcomes, indicating that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.