Mumbai: Children exposed to opioids before birth may face an increased risk of difficulties with vision, attention, behaviour, and learning during their school years, according to a new study led by the University of Glasgow and the University of Dundee.
The study conducted a systematic review of findings from the last decade to examine the effects of prenatal opioid exposure among children aged five to 18 years.
The review included 27 research papers involving more than 31,000 children exposed to opioids, alongside over 5.4 million unexposed children across 10 countries.
Researchers found consistent evidence linking prenatal opioid exposure with poorer visual outcomes, increased hyperactivity and attention difficulties, including a higher likelihood of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and lower cognitive performance.
According to the study, vision issues linked to prenatal opioid exposure included higher rates of conditions such as strabismus (eye misalignment), nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), and reduced visual acuity. Cognitive issues included differences in memory, verbal IQ, and educational attainment.
The review also found emerging evidence of widening educational gaps over time, with some studies showing that children exposed to opioids were twice as likely to fall below expected standards in literacy and numeracy by early adolescence.
The findings were less conclusive regarding physical health, brain development, and emotional wellbeing.
Dr Louise Marryat, LKAS Senior Research Fellow, University’s School of Health and Wellbeing, said, “While we cannot say that prenatal opioid exposure directly causes these outcomes, and we have limited data on factors such as the dosage, timing, and type of opioid exposure the consistency of findings, particularly around vision, attention, and learning, suggests that these children may face increased developmental challenges as they grow older.”
“Families affected by opioid use face complex challenges. Policy interventions that prioritise family-centred, supportive approaches can improve outcomes for these children, with joined-up support across health, education, and social care to ensure children and families receive the help they need over the long term,” a press statement added.
The study also highlights the need for long-term developmental monitoring, as well as improved clinician awareness of vision and neurodevelopmental needs. Early identification of attention and learning difficulties would enable timely support.
