Gender Differences in Prenatal Substance Exposure

Adverse effects of prenatal exposure to neurotoxins, including cocaine, alcohol, marijuana, and lead, are well documented and range from initial growth deficits to later cognitive and behavioral problems. Exciting new research has found that there are gender differences in these sequelae resulting in different outcomes for males and females. Namely, exposed males appear to be more vulnerable and experience greater deficits than exposed females. Cutting-edge and thought-provoking, this volume explores a full range of topics related to gender differences in: neurological effects and sensory motor delays; brain metabolism and gene expression; growth velocity, organ maturity, cerebral vasoconstriction, oxidative stress, and sex hormone levels; and cognitive, behavioral, neurochemical, and emotional effects. Bringing together an outstanding group of animal and human researchers, this book aims to contribute to our knowledge of central nervous system development to better inform intervention efforts that target the most vulnerable groups. This timely volume reflects our increasingly sophisticated and refined understanding of this societal problem.