Second-Hand Marijuana Smoke Exposure in Children

Lots of research has been done regarding the harmful effects of second-hand tobacco smoke, but since the legalization of recreational marijuana in several states, we are seeing more parents smoking pot and exposing their young children to this as well. Armed with the data to support the dangers of second-hand cigarette smoke, the rates of parental smoking dropped 7% in the decade leading up to 2015. Now it’s time to define the dangers of exposure to second-hand marijuana smoke, so we can help educate parents who smoke pot on how to keep their children safe.

In the short-term, the smoke itself can irritate the eyes of anyone in the vicinity. Eyes can get teary, red, dry, and painful as a result.

Deeper than surface irritation, cannabinoids, the C in THC, and the psychoactive component of marijuana that gets the user high can get into the systems of passive bystanders, even

children. Several factors play a role in what dose secondary exposure carries, including ventilation in the area, how many smokers are gathered, duration of exposure, and proximity to the smoke. But studies demonstrate that active cannabinoid metabolites have been found in the urine of those exposed to marijuana smoke. That proves definitively that these toxic compounds are making their way into the bodies of children exposed to second-hand marijuana smoke.

Longer-term concerns include the brain changes we see with cannabis use at a young age, including deficits in executive function, memory, and even overall IQ. The effects of weed on a mature brain are not the same as exposing developing neurons. In addition to slowing cognitive function and negatively impacting working memory, early exposure to marijuana can lower a person’s threshold later in life for tolerating other, potentially more dangerous, drugs. Heavy cannabis use has also been linked with mental health disorders. In particular, young men who regularly smoke pot have been found to have a higher incidence of schizophrenia. Teens who use smoke pot have reported higher rates of depression. And cannabis intoxication can cause a psychotic episode.

The smoke from marijuana contains many of the same irritants, chemicals, and carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) as cigarette smoke, and can lead to lung damage. With the legalization of recreational marijuana, the tell-tale smell is now everywhere— indoors and outside. Much of the advice we gave to cigarette-smoking parents to protect their children applies to marijuana-smoking parents as well:

The healthiest path forward for you and your family is to not smoke at all.

 If you do smoke, don’t do it around your child.

 Even if your child isn’t there, don’t smoke where they will be, like the house or car.

After you smoke, change your clothes and wash up. Smoke lingers.

Just because something is legal doesn’t mean it is safe. It’s unfair to impose the risks we choose on our children, especially when the hazard for immediate and long-term consequences is so much higher for them. Know that smoking marijuana affects everyone in the room. If it’s on you, it’s likely in you.