What your patients are reading: Week of October 28, 2024

November 1, 2024

Doctors see increase in illness from THC-laced candy

With Halloween this week, there's a growing concern about THC-laced candy being mistaken for regular treats, leading to an increase in emergency room visits. Dr. Michael Haynes from HCA Florida Brandon has treated young children who accidentally consumed these edibles, which often resemble popular candy brands. Nearly 600 cases were reported across Florida in 2021, with numbers already high this year. Symptoms in children can include hallucinations, seizures, and slower breathing. Parents are advised to be vigilant and seek immediate medical attention if THC ingestion is suspected.1

Rising temperatures bring new food safety threats to your plate

Climate change is increasing the threat of foodborne pathogens, say experts who point to the recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders as an example. Warmer temperatures are causing pathogens to adapt in ways that compromise food safety, according to Pratik Banerjee, associate professor of food safety at the University of Illinois. Research at the Illinois Institute of Technology supports these findings, highlighting disruptions in microorganism behavior due to climate change. Pathogens like E. coli, salmonella, and campylobacter are becoming more prevalent in warmer climates, with some appearing in the U.S. for the first time. Experts stress the urgent need for the food industry to adapt to these changes to ensure food safety.2

Cheerleading’s growing athleticism spurs call for enhanced safety measures

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a new statement highlighting the increasing risks associated with youth cheerleading and calling for it to be formally recognized as a sport. This would ensure cheerleaders receive the same resources and support as other athletes, including addressing the rising incidence of injuries, particularly concussions, as cheerleading routines become more complex and athletic. While cheerleading injuries occur less frequently than in other sports like girls’ soccer or basketball, they can be severe and have prolonged recovery times. Nearly 70% of concussions in high school cheerleading are linked to stunting activities. AAP emphasizes the need for improved safety measures, including physical health screenings and emergency action plans, to mitigate these risks.3

Sources:

1. Hinds, H. (2024, October 29). Fox 13 News. Doctors see uptick in sickness from THC-laced candy ahead of Halloween. https://www.fox13news.com/news/doctors-see-uptick-sickness-from-thc-laced-candy-ahead-halloween

2. Molina, T. (2024, October 28). CBS News. Threat of foodborne pathogens is growing with climate change, experts warn. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/threat-foodborne-pathogens-growing-climate-change

3. Huang, P. (2024, October 24). NPR. Youth cheerleading is getting more athletic — and riskier. https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/10/23/nx-s1-5162335/cheerleader-stunts-kids-injuries-safety