An Akron Children’s Hospital physician is urging pediatricians to start talking about marijuana safety during routine wellness visits, highlighting a dramatic rise in cannabis ingestions among children. Dr. Eric Ligotski, who is presenting new research at the American Academy of Pediatrics national convention in Denver on Sept. 28, says discussions about cannabis ingestions should be as routine as reminding families to brush teeth, get enough sleep, and lock up weapons at home.
The team’s report, “Temporal Association Between Cannabis Legalization and Intoxications in Ohio,” analyzed a statewide poison control database between 2018 and 2024. Researchers found 5,387 cannabis exposures during that period, with nearly 35% involving children under age six. Cases of cannabis ingestions skyrocketed from 47 incidents in 2018 to 612 in 2024 among the youngest age group, a 13-fold increase. Statewide, more than 800 children 12 and younger were exposed to cannabis last year, mostly from edibles like gummies, cookies, brownies, and drinks.
Dr. Ligotski said the findings show why anticipatory guidance must evolve. “We talk about homework, bedtime, and toothbrushing,” he noted. “Now we need to add marijuana safety, because cannabis ingestions is becoming a significant pediatric risk.” His emergency department has treated children who accidentally consumed cannabis products belonging to parents or siblings. Some have required hospital admission after severe cannabis ingestion episodes, including vomiting and impaired coordination.
Instead, doctors monitor symptoms and support breathing and hydration. In severe cases, cannabis ingestions can trigger fast heart rates, agitation, seizures, and respiratory distress. “Large amounts may depress a child’s respiratory drive or cause aspiration pneumonia,” Ligotski warned, adding that the public needs clear, consistent packaging warnings to prevent accidental cannabis ingestions.
Ohio legalized medical marijuana sales in 2019 and began adult-use sales in 2023. As legal access grows, so does the importance of educating families on preventing cannabis ingestions at home. Michele Mizda, Akron Children’s social work manager, emphasized that accidental ingestions are not automatically referred to child protective services but require careful follow-up and education.
By presenting these findings nationally, Dr. Ligotski and his colleagues hope to reduce pediatric cannabis ingestions through awareness, childproof storage, and better labeling. For families, the message is simple: treat marijuana products like any other household hazard and keep them locked away to prevent dangerous cannabis ingestions incidents.