Teen Brain Structure Study Links Early Substance Use Risk

A US study discovered that variations in brain structure among teenagers may contribute to early substance use risk. Structural differences, including a thinner prefrontal cortex, might exist before substance use begins. These findings highlight the importance of examining factors like genetics and environment when considering drug use prevention strategies.

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have identified critical differences in the brain structures of teenagers who begin using substances like alcohol and cannabis before age 15 compared to their abstinent peers. These findings, published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Network Open, reveal potential neural vulnerabilities pre-existing substance use initiation.

Conducted by Washington University in St. Louis and others, the research showed that some teenagers at risk displayed a larger brain and thinner prefrontal cortex, a brain region crucial for planning and decision-making. These differences might suggest inherent susceptibility due to genetic and environmental factors, according to the study.

The study involved analyzing MRI scans of 9,804 children aged 9-11 across the US, revealing 39 region-specific structural differences. Of these, 22 related to cortical thickness. Experts, including Dr. Nora Volkow, stress that understanding these interactions is essential for effective drug use prevention and intervention strategies.

(With inputs from agencies.)