Substance Use While 16 and Pregnant: The Effects of E-cigarette and Marijuana Policies on Birth Outcomes for Pregnant Teenagers

Using econometric techniques, Michael Pesko examined data from the National Center for Health Statistics to explore the impact of e-cigarette and marijuana policies on cigarette use and birth outcomes. The study provided evidence of whether e-cigarettes, marijuana, and cigarettes have differential risks to pregnant women.

Michael Pesko is a health economist and associate professor at Georgia State University. He is an expert in applying models from health economics and econometrics, such as difference-in-difference and instrumental variable models, in innovative ways to healthcare delivery, health insurance, and substance use. His research focuses on evaluating health policy changes and their effect on health outcomes.