Intrauterine cocaine exposure and executive functioning in middle childhood

This longitudinal study evaluated whether the level of intrauterine cocaine exposure (IUCE) or the interaction between IUCE and contextual variables was related during middle childhood to executive functioning, as assessed with the Stroop Color-Word and Rey Osterrieth Complex Figure tests. The Stroop Interference score measures verbal inhibitory control while the Rey Osterrieth Organizational score evaluates skills such as planning, organization and perception. Masked examiners assessed 143 children at 9.5 and 11 years of age (74 with IUCE and 69 demographically similar children without IUCE). Level of IUCE (Unexposed; Lighter, and Heavier) was documented by positive postpartum maternal reports and infant meconium assays. In covariate-controlled regressions, level of IUCE was not significantly associated with Stroop Interference or Rey Osterrieth Organization scores. However, in covariate controlled post-hoc tests comparing the Heavier exposed group to the combined Lighter/Unexposed group, children in the Heavier group had significantly poorer Stroop Interference scores, but there was no significant group difference for Rey Osterrieth Organizational scores. Children's average Organization scores in Unexposed, Lighter, and Heavier exposed groups were well below the test norm means. Results of this study indicate that heavier IUCE may be associated with mild compromise on school-aged children's ability to inhibit prepotent verbal responses.