Abstract #5348

Long-term cannabis use and brain structure: an MRI study of a New Zealand longitudinal birth cohort

Rebecca M. Lee^1,2, James A. Foulds³, Reza Shoorangiz², Mustafa M. Almuqbel⁴, Campbell Le Heron^1,2,5, Lana Cleland³, Ross J. Keenan⁴, Roger Mulder³, Richard J. Porter³, Giles Newton-Howes⁶, Katie M. Douglas³, Anthony P. H. Butler⁷, Joseph M. Boden³, and Tracy R. Melzer^1,2

¹Department of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand, ²New Zealand Brain Research Institute, Christchurch, New Zealand, ³Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand, ⁴Pacific Radiology Group, Christchurch, New Zealand, ⁵Department of Neurology, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand, ⁶Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand, ⁷Department of Radiology, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand

Synopsis

Keywords: Gray Matter, Brain, Cannabis

This study investigated whether cannabis use during adolescent and early adulthood was associated with long-term brain differences into middle-age, using structural T1-weighted, ASL, and diffusion MRI. Compared to non-using controls, users exhibited significantly less grey matter volume in the hippocampus and amygdala (p < 0.05). We observed no significant between-group differences in cerebral blood flow or white matter integrity. While cannabis may relate to long-term brain changes, prospective longitudinal MRI studies may help to elucidate causality.

How to access this content:

For one year after publication, abstracts and videos are only open to registrants of this annual meeting. Registrants should use their existing login information. Non-registrant access can be purchased via the ISMRM E-Library.

After one year, current ISMRM & ISMRT members get free access to both the abstracts and videos. Non-members and non-registrants must purchase access via the ISMRM E-Library.

After two years, the meeting proceedings (abstracts) are opened to the public and require no login information. Videos remain behind password for access by members, registrants and E-Library customers.

Click here for more information on becoming a member.