sentative of the entirety of TN . Therefore , generalizing their findings as well as ours must be done with caution as unique factors not yet identified may be present . The researchers in TN did not report the rate of small head size in control cases ( no exposure to opioids ) who smoked with those who did not smoke . In our population , 10 of 33 ( 30 %) infants with tobacco exposure alone had the diagnosis of microcephaly , and 100 % of microcephalic infants with mothers who used opioids also smoked cigarettes .
Our review suggests that tobacco products alone may increase the incidence of microcephaly and may further enhance this adverse effect when combined with other exposures ( opioids , and / or cannabis ). Our findings point to the importance of further investigation into the effects of smoking and the use of other substances in these women of childbearing age in WV , and other regions , as congenital microcephaly may have profound effects on the health and development of infants for decades into the future .
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