Improving neurological and mental health outcomes for children with prenatal drug exposure.

Abstract

Prenatal drug exposure is a global public health problem that will never be completely eliminated. Some drugs are essential for maternal health but many others are used recreationally and for non-medical reasons. Both legal and illegal drugs of addiction and dependency have the potential to cause permanent and even intergenerational harm to the developing child and understanding the direct impact of drugs of addiction on child neurodevelopmental and mental health is difficult and confounded by many social, environmental and possibly, genetic factors. Furthermore, many drugs are not clear neuroteratogens and their impact on the child may be indolent and not appreciated for a long time after exposure has occurred. Despite this, there are numerous windows of opportunity to improve the eventual outcomes of the child including utilising the enormous benefits of neuroplasticity and general principles of basic health care and support. This chapter will discuss current understanding of the impact of drugs of addiction on the growing child and offer possible mitigation strategies to improve outcomes.