Study Examines Marijuana-Related Poison Control Center Calls in Massachusetts

Background on Marijuana Legalization

The topic of marijuana legalization remains contentious, with varying opinions on its safety and intended use. Derived from the hemp plant, marijuana contains numerous cannabinoids that affect the body differently. For instance, cannabidiol (CBD) has been associated with alleviating anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia. Conversely, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component responsible for the “high,” may pose risks to youth and their developing brains.

Marijuana Legalization in Massachusetts

As marijuana legalization gains traction, many regions are decriminalizing its use. Massachusetts is one such state, having legalized medical marijuana in 2012, with dispensaries opening in 2015. This shift has raised concerns about potentially increased accessibility for children and the associated risks of accidental ingestion.

Research Findings from the University of Massachusetts Amherst

Study Overview

A study published in JAMA Network Open by researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst investigated trends in poison control center calls related to marijuana before and after the state’s medical legalization. The analysis focused on data from four years prior to and following legalization, specifically from 2009 to 2016.

Data Analysis

During the study period, the poison control center received a total of 218 calls concerning marijuana use among children and youths. Of these, 98 calls were solely related to marijuana, while 120 involved marijuana mixed with other substances. Notably, these calls accounted for just 0.15 percent of all poison control center calls for this age group.

Trends in Cannabis Exposure Calls

The research revealed a significant increase in cannabis exposure calls, escalating by 140 percent post-legalization. The rate rose from 0.4 calls per 100,000 population to 1.1 calls per 100,000. Of the reported cases, over 25 percent were unintentional, with 19.4 percent involving children under five years old. Additionally, calls regarding THC-infused edible products increased across most age demographics, particularly among adolescents aged 15-19.

Implications and Preventive Measures

Although the majority of calls resulted in minor to moderate effects and no fatalities were recorded, researchers believe that many incidents could have been avoided. Implementing child-resistant packaging for cannabis products may help reduce unintentional exposures in young children. Raising awareness about the potency of edibles and THC concentrates could also prove beneficial.

Future Research Directions

The University of Massachusetts researchers plan to further investigate the implications of recreational marijuana legalization, which took effect in late 2016. Additional research is necessary to assess whether similar trends in exposure occur with recreational marijuana use and to establish effective strategies to safeguard children from THC-containing products.

References

– Whitehill, J. M., Harrington, C., Lang, C. J., Chary, M., Butta, W. A., & Burns, M. M. (2019). Incidence of Pediatric Cannabis Exposure Among Children and Teenagers Aged 0 to 19 Years Before Medical Marijuana Legalization in Massachusetts. JAMA Network Open, 2(8). doi: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.9456
– Umassscience. (2019, August 16). Cannabis-related poison control calls for Massachusetts kids doubled after medical pot legalized. Retrieved from https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-08/uoma-cpc081319.php
– Grinspoon, P. (2019, June 5). Cannabidiol (CBD) – what we know and what we don’t. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476