Child poisoning is on the rise as Massachusetts cannabis sales grow

By Nina Zdinjak

There’s no doubt that legalizing marijuana can and does bring many benefits to consumers, including the availability of products needed for their health and well-being. Still, the complexity of cannabis programs seems indescribable.

It is well known that the legalization of various substances changes people’s attitudes towards them and makes them less cautious. Education should be a priority whenever a new state embraces the legalization of marijuana and/or other substances like psychedelics.

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Speaking of education, the state of Massachusetts doesn’t seem to be doing enough in this area, as a new report shows state officials have noticed an increase in pediatric exposure to cannabis products, writes WWLP.

“We really feel like there needs to be a lot more information out there,” said Patricia Henley of the Department of Health on Monday.

Bay State passed legislation legalizing marijuana about seven years ago, while dispensaries began selling it in late 2018. Last September, the commission revealed that adult-use cannabis stores in the state had grossed more than $2 billion, based on data from 165 retailers and three delivery companies.

Unfortunately, as cannabis sales increase, so does pediatric exposure to marijuana products.

Henley told members of a public health subcommittee of the Cannabis Advisory Board that officials received 210 calls in 2020 about “accidental pediatric poisoning” with marijuana edibles or flower.

“Basically what our injury prevention program has seen is an increase in pediatric exposure to cannabis products,” Henley said.

RELATED: Poll: A third of parents think using CBD is the same as cannabis

In addition, the state office of The Child Advocate has announced an increase in reports of alleged abuse and neglect “due to pediatric cannabis exposure,” Henley added.

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What now?

The Department of Health is working on a campaign to change and update its training materials, prioritizing responsible use, safe storage and exposure to second-hand marijuana smoke.

Board members said Boston Children’s Hospital has also raised concerns and suggested it join forces with other groups to reach parents, including the state chapter of the American Academy of Pediatricians.

RELATED: Why can’t parents keep marijuana away from young kids?

Henley noted that although the state uses its funds to design a campaign, additional resources may be needed to reach enough people with messages.

“We don’t know what our budget will be next year and if there will be a lot of money for distribution,” Henley said.

A board member noted that the Cannabis Control Commission had requested $1 million in public education funding that could include a focus on “youth prevention.”

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been republished with permission.