Risks of Marijuana Exposure
I practice medicine in Colorado, where use of cannabis was legalized for adults earlier than in many other states. Now it is commonly legalized in many areas throughout the United States, and the recreational use of this substance has increased. Unfortunately, this has become a common occurrence near our young children and even during pregnancy. Many times, people mistakenly think that the use of cannabis is safer than tobacco, which simply is not true. Both substances have been shown to have significant effects on infants, children, and teens.
Names and terms
Before going further, let’s clarify a few things – cannabis and marijuana are often used interchangeably, but there can be a difference. Cannabis refers to any substance that is derived from the cannabis sativa or cannabis indica plants. Marijuana, in contrast, is any part of the plant that contains substantial levels of Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC (this is the chemical that alters mood and creates the “high” experienced by use). However, THC is not the only active substance found in cannabis. Another commonly used substance is cannabidiol, or CBD.
For this article I will refer to marijuana in particular, since it it truly the exposure to THC that is most concerning.
Is marijuana safe to use during pregnancy?
Some women believe that marijuana can be helpful in treating morning sickness while pregnant, or in helping with postpartum stress and depressive symptoms. Studies have been done that show negative effects of cannabis on the developing fetus and in young infants. NO amount of marijuana exposure has been shown to be safe during pregnancy. THC does cross the placenta and exert effects on the developing brain during pregnancy. This can alter normal nerve pathways and cell growth, and has been linked to increased tremor and startle reflexes in newborns. It is also concerning for increased issues with problem solving skills, behavior, attention, and impulse control in older children. It has been suggested there is a link between prenatal and early infant exposure to marijuana and increased risk of substance abuse and depression in teenagers.
Due to these concerning effects on the developing brain:
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend against the use of marijuana in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Is marijuana safe while breastfeeding?
Just like THC passes through the placenta into the developing fetus, in 2018 it was demonstrated that it also transfers into breastmilk. There is also some concern that maternal use of marijuana can impair decision-making and mental functioning in mothers who are caring for their infants.
Is marijuana safe second-hand?
Second-hand smoke from marijuana is just as much of a concern as it is with traditional cigarettes. It is inhaled the same way, enters the bloodstream the same way, and affects the brain of a child or teenager the same way. This can cause positive urine screening for THC. The same psychoactive effects on the brain that are experience by the person smoking marijuana are experienced by those nearby. Again, studies have shown that exposure to THC on the developing brain causes negative changes in the way the brain functions and grows. This is highly concerning to Pediatricians, particularly as the rates of marijuana use increases in the population and more children are exposed at younger ages and for longer periods.
Other forms of marijuana
Edible marijuana comes in several different forms, many of which are appealing to children, including gummies and other dessert-like foods. Unfortunately, this has led to increased rates of ingestion of such substances by children. In fact, a recent study showed significantly increased rates of emergency room visits for ingestion of edibles by children. This ingestion can be dangerous, and affects the brain and mental functioning of children in a negative manner.
Final thoughts
Parents, caregivers, relatives, and friends of the family should always endeavor to keep kids safe and healthy. Eliminating the exposure to marijuana is key, whether it be prenatal, while breastfeeding, or through second-hand smoke. Children cannot control their own environment – they breathe the air in the environment they are given. Let’s make sure it is clean and healthy and will not stunt brain development.
In addition, adults should be aware of the affects that marijuana exposure has on their own mental functioning when they are caring for children. Just because a substance is legal does not mean that it is safe in all capacities – think of how alcohol or prescription pain medications alter decision-making skills.
If you enjoyed this post, please sign up below to subscribe for blog emails. You will receive notification when new posts are available. If you do not receive a welcome email upon registering, please check your spam folder.
