The Alarming Rise of CBD Vaping Among Youth: A Concern for Health Experts

The prevalence of vaping CBD among e-cigarette users has become a significant concern among health experts, especially among middle and high school students. According to the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey, more than 1 in 5 students who use electronic cigarettes reported vaping CBD, a component of marijuana that does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC. Additionally, over 6% of students were unsure whether or not they had vaped CBD.[0]

The study, which involved a nationally representative sample of approximately 28,000 American students, found that 21.3% of reported active e-cigarette users had vaped CBD.[0] The research also highlighted a positive correlation between the frequency and duration of vaping and the likelihood of vaping CBD.[0] Interestingly, the perception of tobacco danger was found to increase the likelihood of vaping CBD, particularly among non-e-cigarette users. This suggests that educating adolescents about the adverse health effects of vaping CBD could help decrease its use among youth.

Another study published in the International Journal of Legal Medicine focused on the effects of vaporizing cannabis rich in cannabidiol (CBD) on cannabinoid levels in the blood and driving ability.[1] The study found that the inhalation of high-CBD/low-THC cannabis did not adversely impact driving abilities.[2] This research provides important insights into the potential safety of CBD use, particularly in relation to activities such as driving.

However, despite the growing popularity and perceived safety of CBD, health experts warn that there can be serious risks associated with vaping CBD, especially among young people. While CBD itself is non-psychoactive and does not produce a “high,” it has the potential to cause harm to the lungs, liver, and male reproductive system.[3] Therefore, it is crucial to determine the prevalence of CBD vaping among youths to better understand the potential health consequences in this population.

The federal legalization of hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill has led to an increase in the availability of hemp-derived CBD products.[4] However, concerns have been raised about the lack of regulation and product safety standards for these products. The broad definition of hemp in the Farm Bill has resulted in an explosion of unregulated hemp-derived products, some of which can be intoxicating due to high levels of THC content.[4] These products are often marketed to consumers outside of a regulated system and can appeal to and be accessed by youth.[4]

The use of CBD among youth is most commonly associated with inhalation through e-cigarettes and similar devices. The convenient and discreet nature of vaping devices has contributed to the increased availability and use of CBD among adolescents.[5] This trend is concerning as it raises questions about the potential long-term health effects of CBD use among young people.[6]

In conclusion, the prevalence of vaping CBD among e-cigarette users, especially among middle and high school students, is a significant public health concern. The lack of regulation and product safety standards for hemp-derived CBD products further compounds these concerns. Educating adolescents about the potential risks and adverse health effects of vaping CBD is crucial in reducing its use among youth. Additionally, further research is needed to better understand the long-term health consequences of CBD use, particularly among young people.

0. “CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens | Fox 11 Tri Cities …” www.fox41yakima.com, 6 Sep. 2023, https://www.fox41yakima.com/cbd-vapes-rising-in-popularity-among-teens/

1. “Chile CBD and Cannabis Regulation Report 2023: Detailed” www.globenewswire.com, 6 Sep. 2023, https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/09/04/2736720/0/en/Chile-CBD-and-Cannabis-Regulation-Report-2023-Detailed-Overview-of-the-Current-Regulatory-Framework-for-Hemp-and-Cannabis-as-well-as-CBD-IHDCs-and-Medical-and-Recreational-Cannabis.html

2. “Study: Inhalation of CBD-Rich Cannabis Doesn't Negatively Impact …” norml.org, 6 Sep. 2023, https://norml.org/news/2023/08/31/study-inhalation-of-cbd-rich-cannabis-doesnt-negatively-impact-simulated-driving-performance/

3. “CBD in the Fire Service | WFCA” wfca.com, 6 Sep. 2023, https://wfca.com/fire-headlines/cbd-in-the-fire-service/

4. “State Marijuana Regulators Tell Congress To Focus On More Than …” www.marijuanamoment.net, 6 Sep. 2023, https://www.marijuanamoment.net/state-marijuana-regulators-tell-congress-to-focus-on-more-than-just-cbd-by-regulating-other-cannabinoids-like-delta-8-thc/

5. “U.S. teens vaping CBD at alarming rates: Study reveals surprising …” www.news-medical.net, 6 Sep. 2023, https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230830/US-teens-vaping-CBD-at-alarming-rates-Study-reveals-surprising-factors-behind-trend.aspx

6. “Lazarus Naturals CBD and Sleep: Can it Help Improve Your Sleep …” www.kstatecollegian.com, 6 Sep. 2023, https://www.kstatecollegian.com/2023/09/05/lazarus-naturals-cbd-and-sleep-can-it-help-improve-your-sleep-quality/

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