The prevalence of vaping CBD among e-cigarette users, particularly students, is a concerning trend, according to the results of the 2022 National Youth Tobacco Survey. The survey found that more than 1 in 5 students who use electronic cigarettes reported vaping CBD, a component of marijuana that does not produce the psychoactive effects of THC. Additionally, over 6% of students were unsure if they had vaped CBD or not.[0]
The study, which involved a nationally representative sample of around 28,000 American students, revealed that out of the 2,448 reported active e-cigarette users, 21.3% admitted to vaping CBD, and 6.3% were uncertain about their CBD vaping habits. This indicates a significant prevalence of CBD vaping among young e-cigarette users.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has made it clear that it considers synthetically produced cannabinoids, including delta-8 THC, to be federally illegal controlled substances. The agency has communicated its support for adding all synthetic cannabinoids, including hemp-derived delta-8 THC, to the list of controlled substances. Additionally, the DEA is preparing for broader rulemaking on cannabis post-hemp legalization, with plans to clarify that synthetic cannabinoids are considered illegal controlled substances while simultaneously moving to decontrol synthetic CBD with up to 0.1 percent THC.
The risks associated with kids vaping CBD come from both the act of vaping itself and the marijuana component. Dr. Diane Tanaka, the medical director of the Teenage and Young Adult Health Center at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, emphasized that young people often underestimate the risks of vaping CBD or cannabis. She pointed out that vaping can negatively impact memory and neurotransmitter function in the developing brain, potentially affecting academic performance and cognitive abilities. The risks of using cannabis are also more significant for younger individuals compared to adults, as their brains are still developing.[0]
The increase in cannabis vaping among adolescents in the United States, particularly among twelfth and tenth-grade students, can be attributed to the easy availability, convenience, and discreetness of vaping devices.[1] This trend has raised concerns among health experts, who warn of the serious risks involved in vaping CBD.
The lack of a uniform, EU-wide regulatory framework for medicinal cannabis poses challenges for the industry. While CBD is undergoing regulation changes within the European Union, there is still no clear framework for the regulation of medicinal cannabis.[2] A comprehensive report analyzing the regulatory landscape in the EU provides valuable insights into the complex policies surrounding cannabis, hemp, CBD, and cannabinoids.
The legality of delta-8 THC, a chemical compound found in cannabis, has been a subject of debate.[3] While it occurs naturally in trace amounts in cannabis plants, the majority of consumer delta-8 products are synthesized from hemp-derived CBD.[4] The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration considers delta-8 THC synthesized from hemp-derived CBD to be federally illegal.
The UK's CBD industry is facing uncertainty due to the lack of legal clarity from the Home Office.[2] The industry has invested significant resources in research to meet the highest food safety standards mandated by the Novel Foods process, but progress has been slow.[5] Despite consultations and recommendations for an appropriate legal framework, the Home Office has not taken further action or provided clarity on the legal status of CBD products.[5]
The safety concerns surrounding CBD use include potential harm to the liver, lungs, and male reproductive system.[1] The authors of the study emphasize the need for evidence-based educational campaigns, interventions, and public policy changes to reduce the harmful health outcomes associated with vaping CBD among young individuals.
The lack of awareness among young people regarding the risks of vaping CBD is a significant issue. Many young users may not realize that they are vaping CBD or may mistakenly believe that it is harmless flavoring. Education and awareness campaigns are crucial to ensure that young individuals fully understand the potential risks and make informed decisions about their health.[6]
In conclusion, the prevalence of vaping CBD among e-cigarette users, especially students, is a concerning trend that demands attention. There is a need for comprehensive regulatory frameworks, education campaigns, and public policy changes to reduce the risks associated with vaping CBD and cannabis among young individuals. It is essential to prioritize the health and well-being of young people and provide them with accurate information to make informed choices about their substance use.
0. “CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens | Fox 11 Tri Cities …” www.fox41yakima.com, 15 Sep. 2023, https://www.fox41yakima.com/cbd-vapes-rising-in-popularity-among-teens/
1. “U.S. teens vaping CBD at alarming rates: Study reveals surprising …” www.news-medical.net, 15 Sep. 2023, https://www.news-medical.net/news/20230830/US-teens-vaping-CBD-at-alarming-rates-Study-reveals-surprising-factors-behind-trend.aspx
2. “European Union CBD and Cannabis Regulation Report 2023: A” www.globenewswire.com, 15 Sep. 2023, https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/09/12/2741442/28124/en/European-Union-CBD-and-Cannabis-Regulation-Report-2023-A-Complex-Journey-through-the-EU-s-Quest-for-Medicinal-Cannabis-Regulations.html
3. “Latest News And Blogs – Ohio CBD Guy” ohiocbdguy.com, 15 Sep. 2023, https://ohiocbdguy.com/latest-news
4. “Delta-8 THC Derived from CBD is Illegal, According to DEA Email …” www.ganjapreneur.com, 15 Sep. 2023, https://www.ganjapreneur.com/dea-confirmed-to-believe-delta-8-thc-synthesized-from-cbd-is-federally-illegal/
5. “Industry tells Home Office: ‘Save our CBD' – Natural Products Global …” www.naturalproductsglobal.com, 15 Sep. 2023, https://www.naturalproductsglobal.com/europe/industry-tells-home-office-save-our-cbd/
6. “CBD Vapes Rising in Popularity Among Teens – Islander News” www.islandernews.com, 15 Sep. 2023, https://www.islandernews.com/lifestyle/health/cbd-vapes-rising-in-popularity-among-teens/article_86fbfdb8-2967-5783-bec0-d950021d02a8.html
