| Journal | Frontiers in public health |
| Study Type | Observational Study |
| Population | Human participants |
Emergency department visits for pediatric cannabis exposure are rising alongside CBD market growth. Understanding caregiver perceptions and household storage practices is essential for preventing unintentional pediatric exposures that can result in serious clinical consequences.
This prospective observational study surveyed 826 adults at a southeastern academic medical center to assess CBD product prevalence and perceptions among households with and without children. The study examined storage practices, general CBD knowledge, and potential risk factors for pediatric exposure through QR code-linked surveys distributed in emergency departments and outpatient clinics from August 2024 to May 2025. The research aims to identify knowledge gaps and behavioral patterns that may contribute to unintentional pediatric CBD exposure requiring emergency care.
“I see concerning knowledge gaps daily in my practice regarding CBD safety and proper storage. This data will help us understand why pediatric exposures continue to rise despite increased CBD availability and presumed familiarity.”
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Table of Contents
- FAQ
- Are CBD products safe to have in homes with children?
- What are the main risks of CBD exposure in children?
- How should parents store CBD products to prevent accidental ingestion?
- What symptoms should prompt emergency care after suspected CBD exposure in children?
- How can healthcare providers better educate families about CBD safety?
FAQ
Are CBD products safe to have in homes with children?
While CBD products may seem harmless, this study reveals concerning safety gaps among caregivers that put children at risk for unintentional exposure. Emergency department visits related to cannabis exposure in young children have increased alongside the rapid growth of the CBD market, suggesting a temporal association between product availability and pediatric incidents.
What are the main risks of CBD exposure in children?
Children who accidentally consume CBD products may experience sedation, altered mental status, and other neurological symptoms requiring emergency medical care. The study’s correlation with increasing ED visits indicates that unintentional CBD exposure can lead to serious clinical presentations warranting immediate medical attention.
How should parents store CBD products to prevent accidental ingestion?
Based on this research highlighting parental knowledge gaps, CBD products should be stored in locked, child-proof containers and kept completely out of children’s reach. Parents and caregivers need better education about proper storage protocols, as current perceptions may inadequately protect children from unintentional exposure.
What symptoms should prompt emergency care after suspected CBD exposure in children?
Given the documented increase in pediatric ED visits associated with cannabis exposure, parents should seek immediate medical attention if their child exhibits unusual drowsiness, confusion, difficulty walking, or altered behavior after potential CBD ingestion. Early recognition and medical evaluation are crucial for appropriate management of pediatric cannabis exposure.
How can healthcare providers better educate families about CBD safety?
This study demonstrates significant knowledge gaps among caregivers, indicating that healthcare providers should proactively discuss CBD product safety during routine visits with families. Patient education should emphasize proper storage, recognition of exposure symptoms, and the importance of treating CBD products with the same precautions as medications or other potentially harmful household substances.