Oregon’s youth are among the highest consumers of cannabis in the United States, with alarming statistics revealing that 87% of individuals aged 12 to 17 perceive little to no risk in using marijuana once a month. This finding emerged during a recent meeting of the Senate Early Childhood and Behavioral Health Committee, where health professionals discussed the implications of cannabis use among young people.
Cannabis remains illegal for individuals under 21 in Oregon, except for those with medical prescriptions. Despite this, the state ranks fourth in the nation for youth cannabis use, prompting concerns from medical experts. Dr. David Rettew, Medical Director at Lane County Behavioral Health, highlighted the significant gap between actual and perceived risks associated with cannabis. Unlike tobacco and alcohol, which are widely recognized as dangerous, many young Oregonians do not acknowledge the potential harms of cannabis.
The state is also witnessing an increase in mental health challenges among its youth, with suicide rates among young people consistently surpassing the national average. Rep. Ed Diehl emphasized the need to address the factors contributing to this crisis, which he described as a “perfect storm” of increased access to cannabis, rising product potency, and a cultural narrative that downplays the risks. He stated, “Our youth are being misled, and their health and futures are at stake.”
Studies indicate that while most cannabis users do not develop substance abuse issues, using cannabis can heighten the likelihood of experimenting with more dangerous drugs. Dr. Rettew referenced a troubling study that showed THC exposure in rats not only increased their chances of using opiates later but also affected their offspring similarly through epigenetics. Other risks associated with cannabis use include increased likelihood of violent behavior, cognitive impairment, decreased motivation, and exacerbated anxiety. Notably, cannabis use is linked to a higher risk of psychotic disorders when compared to other substances, including methamphetamines.
To combat these issues, Dr. Rettew recommended several strategies, including launching a public health campaign to correct misinformation, expanding prevention programs, enforcing stricter potency limits on cannabis products, and tightening regulations against false advertising aimed at minors. He expressed concern about ongoing misrepresentations of cannabis effects, noting, “It’s illegal to claim that cannabis treats depression, and evidence suggests the opposite.”
David Jernigan, a professor at Boston University School of Public Health, echoed these concerns and advocated for policies to restrict the cannabis industry’s influence. His proposals included implementing a THC cap similar to regulations in alcohol and tobacco, ensuring tighter control over high-potency products, and limiting the influence of cannabis businesses in governmental advisory positions. Jernigan underscored the importance of keeping cannabis businesses small and diverse to prevent monopolistic practices.
Furthermore, a recent study led by Julia Dilley from the Multnomah County Health Department revealed a troubling rise in cannabis-related poisonings among children. In 2023, children aged 0 to 5 accounted for one-third of all cannabis exposure cases reported to the Oregon Poison Center. The rise in incidents follows a 2022 policy change that increased the allowable THC content in edibles from 50 milligrams to 100 milligrams per package. Dilley indicated that the attractive appearance of cannabis edibles, often resembling cookies or brownies, may lead children to ingest them unknowingly. Although many children recover from such exposures, some experience severe health issues affecting their breathing, heart rate, or consciousness.
Oregon’s health officials and policymakers face critical decisions in addressing the perceived risks of cannabis use among youth. With rising rates of consumption and associated health risks, effective public education and regulation will be essential in protecting the health and futures of Oregon’s young population.
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