What is the March of Dimes doing to address the problems of cocaine use during pregnancy?
The March of Dimes supports research aimed at learning more about the effects of prenatal cocaine exposure in the newborn period and in later childhood, with the goal of helping children overcome potential problems. For example, one study looks at how cocaine exposure affects speech and language skills. Another looks at the impact of cocaine exposure on the development of self control, which is necessary for learning and functioning at school and at home. These studies could lead to educational programs that can help these children learn more effectively. The March of Dimes has sponsored conferences on cocaine use during pregnancy for health professionals and the media to increase awareness of this problem, and conducts educational programs to inform the public of the dangers of cocaine and other drugs to unborn babies. References Arendt, R., et al. Motor development of cocaine-exposed children at age two years. Pediatrics, volume 103, number 1, January 1999, pages 86-92. Delaney-Black
