Recreational Cannabis Legalization in Canada: A Pediatrics Perspective

Background: Despite its controversial nature, the use of recreational marijuana and cannabis-derived products continue to increase in popularity. Cannabis consumption is currently legal in certain American states as well as Canada, and it is also frequently used by Canadian youth. However, cannabis use during childhood and adolescence can contribute to significant harm. Materials and Methods: A review of current literature regarding the impacts of cannabis consumption among Canadian youth was conducted. Medline, Cochrane, Embase and PubMed databases were utilized to identify journal articles published within 10 years that highlighted the impacts of cannabis consumption in its different forms among the North American pediatric population. Results: Our review identified harms include structural and functional impairments in the developing brain, the development of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, impaired road safety while driving under the influence of cannabis, and the significant consequences of accidental ingestion of cannabis products by children. We also ascertained that cannabis cessation strategies that employed an affective model, which explores the root causes of adolescents turning to cannabis, are most effective in reducing substance use among adolescents. Conclusions: In light of the recent legalization of cannabis in Canada, the purpose of this article was to provide background on cannabis consumption and its legalization in Canada, the impacts of cannabis on Canadian youth, and evidence-based strategies to help mitigate them.

Automated summary

Despite the legalization of cannabis in certain American states and Canada, its use among Canadian youth can lead to significant harm including brain development impairments, mental health conditions, impaired road safety, and accidental ingestion. Effective cannabis cessation strategies that explore the root causes of adolescent use are crucial in reducing substance abuse.