New Report Shows “Significant Secondhand Marijuana Smoke Exposure” in NYC Apartments; What Is the Risk For Cancer?

“Data from a new study suggesting nearly one-third of families smell marijuana smoke when their children are present raises concerns about the potential impact of legalized marijuana on vulnerable populations, particularly children, according to the researchers,” say Mount Sinai researchers.

As more and more people are staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns, this may be a growing concern for people living in tight quarters.

Risks of Secondhand Marijuana Smoke

Mount Sinai spoke with Dr. Wilson, the Vice Chair for Clinical and Translational Research for the Jack and Lucy Clark Department of Pediatrics, about this issue.

Related: Is Medical Marijuana Right for People With Lung Cancer? Here's What the Experts Say

She says, “As we move towards the legalization of recreational marijuana in New York State, this study serves as a warning that our most vulnerable patient populations who live in multi-use housing will likely experience much higher levels of smoke incursions unless we are intentional about regulating exposure, particularly among children."

"In light of these findings,” says Dr. Wilson, “we hope to see the expansion of current policies that solely restrict tobacco smoke to include restrictions on marijuana smoke in order to mitigate disparities and protect vulnerable populations exposed to dual smoke exposure.”

Who Has Access to Medical Marijuana in the U.S.?

Use of Marijuana During Cancer Treatment

Some people battling cancer may use marijuana to mitigate the effects of chemotherapy, or manage pain. Dr. Junella Chin tells us in a previous interview, "Medical cannabis if you think about it, it's the only botanical medicine that can help nausea, increase appetite, decrease pain, and elevate mood.”

Related: Can Children With Cancer Be Given Medical Marijuana?

“A lot of people who are undergoing chemotherapy as part of their cancer treatment and live in a state where medical marijuana is available are using it for relief,” she says. Dr. Chin says that people with cancer come to her looking for relief from chemo-related ailments, such as nausea, decreased appetite, pain, insomnia, or depression. Currently, over 30 states in the U.S. have medical marijuana programs.

Treating Chemo Side Effects With Cannabis

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