Tuesday Aug 23, 2022
Lead Story: Neurocognitive Performance and Brain Structure Associated With Initiation of Tobacco Use
JAMA Network Open
Data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study was analyzed to assess impact of early initiation (<13 years of age) of tobacco products (including e-cigarettes) on neurocognitive function. The study recruited 11729 children aged 9-10 (mean 9.9) and conducted follow-ups at 2 years. Children who self-reported ever using tobacco products at recruitment were found to have lower scores on Picture Vocabulary Tests, crystalized cognition, and total cognition at baseline, and at 2-year follow-up had lower scores on Oral Reading Recognition, Picture Sequence Memory, Picture Vocabulary Tests, and crystalized cognition. Further, they were found to have lower cortical volume at recruitment and follow-up, particularly in areas linked with language function. While additional research is needed, these findings highlight the continued need to focus on prevention among young children.