The legalization of cannabis in Canada has led to a significant increase in cannabis poisoning cases among children. According to data from the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI), emergency visits due to cannabis poisoning in children have risen sharply since the drug was legalized. The study analyzed the number of emergency room visits in three periods: before the legalization of cannabis, after the legalization of cannabis flowers, seeds, and oils, and after the legalization of cannabis-infused foods. The study found that there were 522 emergency room visits due to poisoning in children during the entire study period, with almost ten percent of them related to cannabis.
The most alarming finding was that emergency room visits for children under ten years old increased significantly after the legalization of cannabis-infused foods. The number of emergency visits due to cannabis poisoning in children has increased nine-fold since legalization. Nearly one-third of the children (32.7%) required hospital treatment for their poisoning, with some even requiring intensive care. Fortunately, there have been no reported deaths. The study authors suggest that the results highlight the need for improved education, regulation, and safety measures for cannabis products. They also recommend reducing the appeal of cannabis-infused foods to prevent small children from consuming them. It is crucial for caregivers to handle cannabis products with care and keep them out of reach of children.
In conclusion, the legalization of cannabis in Canada has led to a significant increase in cannabis poisoning cases among children. The study’s findings emphasize the need for improved education, regulation, and safety measures for cannabis products, particularly cannabis-infused foods. Caregivers must handle cannabis products with care and keep them out of reach of children to prevent further cases of cannabis poisoning.
