During the COVID-19 pandemic, cannabis-involved emergency department (ED) visits among young people under 25 years rose significantly, according to CDC data from the National Syndromic Surveillance Program spanning 2019–2022. Weekly averages were consistently higher in 2020, 2021, and 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, with notable spikes among children aged 10 years. While ED visit rates for adolescents aged 11–14 showed no sex differences initially, rates for females surpassed those of males during the latter part of 2020. Raising clinicians’ awareness of these trends could support early diagnosis of cannabis intoxication in youth. Additionally, promoting safe cannabis storage, bolstering youth coping skills through prevention programs, and redesigning cannabis packaging to reduce its appeal to children could help prevent both intentional and accidental use.
Key Facts: Cannabis-Involved Emergency Department (ED) Visits (2018–2023)
- Overall Statistics (Aged <25 Years)
- 539,106 cannabis-involved ED visits occurred (64.9 per 10,000 ED visits).
- Children Aged 10 Years
- Weekly visits rose from 18.7 (pre-pandemic, 2019) to 71.5 (summer 2022, peak).
- ED visit ratios per 10,000 ED visits ranged from 2.4 to 5.8.
- Adolescents Aged 11–14 Years
- Weekly visits increased from 90.5 (pre-pandemic, 2019) to 209.3 (2022, peak).
- Visit rates among females surpassed males starting late 2020, with female visit ratios reaching 2.7 at their peak.
- Young Adults Aged 15–24 Years
- Over 90% of cannabis-involved ED visits were in this group.
- Weekly visits peaked at 2,813.2 (2021, second half of school year).
- Trends and Peaks
- Cannabis-involved ED visits peaked in 2022 for children aged ≤10 and adolescents aged 11–14.
- Among young adults (15–24), visit rates remained elevated through summer 2021, briefly returning to baseline during early 2021 and 2022.
These trends in cannabis-involved emergency department visits among young people highlight the growing impact of marijuana use on physical and mental health, especially during vulnerable stages of development. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or young adult, it’s essential to recognize the risks associated with cannabis use, including accidental ingestion by children and the potential for increased anxiety, depression, or other health concerns in adolescents and young adults. Prioritizing your well-being means making informed choices—avoiding marijuana use not only safeguards your health but also supports a clearer mind and stronger body. Let’s work together to foster healthier habits for ourselves and the next generation.
Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7228a1.htm
