Surge in Cannabis-Related Illnesses: Study Links CHS Rise

Research from the University of Illinois Chicago reveals a significant increase in emergency department visits for cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a condition associated with chronic cannabis use. This alarming trend has been particularly pronounced among younger adults. The study, published in JAMA Network Open, highlights the necessity for greater awareness among healthcare professionals regarding this debilitating yet treatable health issue.

Understanding Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is characterized by recurrent episodes of severe nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Acute episodes can last from one to two days, often causing intense discomfort that results in patients crying out in pain, a phenomenon colloquially referred to as “scromiting.” Chronic cannabis users, particularly those who have consumed the substance regularly for several years, are most at risk for developing CHS.

The exact cause of CHS remains uncertain, but researchers suspect it may stem from overstimulation of cannabinoid receptors in the gastrointestinal system. Despite its classification as a rare complication, the study indicates that cases of CHS have been on the rise, particularly since the legalization of cannabis has expanded in various regions.

During their research, scientists analyzed data from emergency room visits across the United States from 2016 to 2022. Due to the previous lack of recognition for CHS as a distinct medical condition, the team focused on cases diagnosed with cyclical vomiting syndrome in conjunction with cannabis use. They found approximately 100,000 cases documented during the study period. Notably, while rates remained stable prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a marked increase in suspected CHS cases starting in 2020.

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The rise in CHS cases coincides with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the study’s lead author, James Swartz, a professor at UIC’s Jane Addams College of Social Work, the pandemic likely exacerbated stress and isolation, leading to increased cannabis consumption. Although the incidence peaked in 2021, the rates have not returned to pre-pandemic levels, indicating persistent factors driving the rise in CHS.

The researchers noted that during the same timeframe, there was a general increase in cannabis-related health problems, while cases of cyclical vomiting syndrome unrelated to cannabis did not rise. This discrepancy further supports the conclusion that CHS is becoming more prevalent as cannabis use becomes more widespread.

Despite the troubling statistics, the authors emphasize that CHS remains a relatively rare side effect. The only definitive way to prevent CHS is to cease cannabis use entirely, which may take weeks for symptoms to subside. Swartz stated, “Our findings shouldn’t be interpreted as a reason to panic, but they do reinforce that cannabis is not risk-free, especially at higher doses and with long-term, heavy use.”

Additionally, CHS was officially recognized in the latest edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), streamlining the diagnosis process and facilitating better tracking of its prevalence. However, the study authors stress that healthcare providers must be aware of CHS to ensure timely diagnoses and reduce unnecessary testing.

The research calls for further investigation into the underlying causes of CHS and why only a subset of chronic cannabis users develop the syndrome. As cannabis legalization continues to spread, understanding the potential health risks associated with its use remains crucial for public health.