Commissioners urge families to learn about the risks of cannabis use

During a Deschutes County Board of Commissioners meeting on Wednesday, April 1, County Health Services shared emerging medical findings, scientific data and local public health concerns about adolescent cannabis use in the county. Staff said early cannabis use has been linked to a greater risk of mental health problems, including anxiety and mood changes, and may also affect school performance and physical health.

Following the presentation, commissioners encouraged parents and caregivers to learn more about the risks of cannabis, or marijuana, use.

"Preventing adolescent cannabis use takes education, strong community support and informed families," said Deschutes County Prevention and Health Promotion Program Manager Jessica Jacks. "Parents and caregivers have the biggest influence on whether a young person uses cannabis, alcohol or other drugs before age 21."

Highlights from the presentation include:

• The latest data show 8% of Oregon youth ages 12 to 17 and 24% of adults ages 18 and older reported cannabis use.
• Youth who regularly use cannabis before age 18 are more likely to develop cannabis use disorder later in life.
• Cannabis use may worsen outcomes for youth with symptoms of psychosis and may be linked to earlier first episodes of psychosis.
• New evidence shows chronic cannabis use, especially during early adolescence, may raise the risk of psychosis and schizophrenia.
• Cannabis products today are more potent than in past decades, raising new concerns about health effects and risk.

The legal age to buy and use retail cannabis in Oregon is 21 and older. Deschutes County encourages families to stay informed, talk openly with their children and seek support when needed.

The County's Prevention and Health Promotion Team works collaboratively with the Shared Future Coalition to help prevent youth substance use, including alcohol, nicotine, cannabis and other drugs. The coalition brings together local leaders from business, government, schools, health care, law enforcement, faith groups, media, parents and youth to reduce substance misuse through education, community engagement and policy.

For more information visit: sharedfuturecoalition.org. To view Health Service's cannabis impact presentation, visit deschutes.org/meetings.

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Media Contact:

Kim Katchur, Public Information Officer

(541) 322-7441