Premature babies are linked to cannabis

TEENAGERS who smoke cannabis are more likely to have tots born too early.

The finding applies to girls and boys, say scientists, who suggest the drug carries “intergenerational risks”.

Babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are prone to having development problems.

Study co-author Dr Lindsey Hines, of the University of Bristol, pointed to the drug’s link with poor mental health, adding: “Our results indicate there may be further effects that individuals may not anticipate.”

The study followed 665 Australians tracked over 20 years.

Infants born to those aged 29 and over who consumed cannabis every day between 15 and 17 were prone to early delivery or low birth weight.