Shocking Rise in Accidental Marijuana Consumption Among Oklahoma Children Under 6

By: Hunter Dublin | Jan 10, 2023

A recent study released by the American Academy of Pediatrics indicates an increase in children under 6 years old unintentionally consuming marijuana-infused products.

In recent years, the number of reported cases of accidental marijuana consumption in children under 6 has drastically increased. In 2017, the United States saw 207 reported cases. However, by 2021 this number had risen to an astonishing 3,054 - a surge of 1,375%. The Oklahoma Poison Center released data that indicated this trend was also moving upward in the state.

In 2018, only 14 cases of underage accidental marijuana consumption were reported; by 2022, that number had risen to 269. Fortunately, none of those 269 cases resulted in death according to OPC.

A large number of children were affected by consuming marijuana edibles, and a considerable proportion of 166 out of 269 children had to be taken to a medical center for care.

As more states in the U.S. legalize marijuana, adults should be aware of the potential dangers it can pose to young children who may not understand the difference between edible marijuana products and regular candy. Cannabis users should be knowledgeable about storage procedures and safekeeping.

The Oklahoma Poison Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222 for poison help.