An article in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report explores a sharp increase in cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) from 2016-2022 in the United States. CHS is a condition characterized by cyclical nausea and vomiting associated with frequent cannabis use.

From the report summary:

The proportion of all-cause emergency department visits that involved CHS were higher after implementation of a new International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis code, suggesting improved recognition and previous underestimation of the public health impact of CHS. Higher proportions were observed among younger persons and females.

What are the implications for public health practice?

The new CHS-specific diagnosis code has improved CHS surveillance and estimation of public health impact. However, increased clinical recognition and education about risks of frequent cannabis use are still needed, particularly in younger populations.

Click here to read the full report.