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Pediatric Edible Cannabis Exposures and Acute Toxicity: 2017-2021
Marit S Tweet1,2, Antonia Nemanich2,3, Michael Wahl2,4
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois.
Pediatrics
|January 3, 2023
Summary
Pediatric cannabis edible ingestions surged by 1375% from 2017 to 2021, leading to increased hospitalizations and severe outcomes. Increased awareness and prevention are crucial for child safety.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Toxicology
- Public Health
- Cannabis Research
Background:
- Pediatric exposure to cannabis edibles has emerged as a significant public health concern.
- Edible cannabis products pose unique risks due to delayed onset and variable potency.
- Understanding trends in pediatric ingestions is vital for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate trends in pediatric cannabis edible ingestions among children younger than 6 years from 2017 to 2021.
- To analyze changes in toxicity, medical outcomes, and healthcare utilization.
- To compare pre-pandemic (2017-2019) and pandemic (2020-2021) periods.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of the National Poison Data System (NPDS) data.
- Inclusion of pediatric exposures to edible cannabis products in children <6 years.
- Quantitative analysis of incidence, clinical effects, outcomes, and healthcare utilization.
Main Results:
- A 1375% increase in reported cases from 2017 (207 cases) to 2021 (3054 cases).
- Central nervous system depression was common (70% of known outcomes).
- Significant increases in hospital admissions (ICU and non-ICU) and severe outcomes were observed, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic years.
Conclusions:
- Consistent rise in pediatric cannabis edible exposures necessitates heightened awareness among healthcare providers.
- Significant toxicity potential underscores the need for targeted education and prevention efforts.
- The findings highlight an ongoing public health challenge requiring proactive interventions.
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