Prenatal cocaine exposure has been linked to behavior problems and substance use in children in previous studies. However, a recent study looked at how these effects are seen in young adulthood and continue to influence behavior.
This longitudinal study recorded drug use each trimester for a cohort of pregnant women, and then continued to assess the mothers and children 1, 3, 7, 10, 15, and 21 years after they were born. At age 21, 225 offspring reported behavior problems, emotion regulation, and substance use.
There was direct association between prenatal cocaine exposure and high levels of marijuana use. There was also a link to having immediate family members with alcohol and drug problems and having reported childhood trauma. Offspring who were exposed to cocaine were also more likely to have been arrested, been diagnosed with Conduct Disorder, and have less inhibitory control.
36%, 41%, and 28% of 21 year olds who had been exposed to cocaine reported using alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana respectively before age 15. The average education level was 12.7 years, and 42% were still attending school. The high levels of substance use and low levels of education make it evident that this population can use support compared to average 21 year olds. Overall, prenatal cocaine exposure can have long-term direct and indirect impacts on offspring and can lead to substance use and behavioral issues that extend into young adulthood.
Take Away: Young adults who were exposed to cocaine prenatally are more likely to have early onset of marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco use.