Cannabis Legalization: Implications for Public Health

• In Event: Roundtable: Cannabis Legalization - Examining the Impact of the Changing Landscape

Abstract

The growing number of states legalizing adult recreational cannabis use and the subsequent access to cannabis dispensaries raise public health concerns. Current research reports mixed findings but suggest a correlation between increased cannabis access through legalization and higher rates of cannabis use, increased hospitalizations for cannabis related medical issues (physical and behavioral outcomes), and suicides (particularly among youth and females). This is particularly important considering the growing use of cannabis infused edible products (e.g. brownies, gummies) and the difference in Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels often found in products available for sale (19% – 30%) versus levels in medical research (3%-6%). Our discussion will address how increased access to cannabis and cannabis infused products may have the unintended consequence of increasing adverse behavioral and physical events that can have short and long terms consequences for individuals, healthcare systems, legal systems, and the larger community.

Author

• Christine Saum, Rowan University