Marijuana and Health

Marijuana, like all drugs, has potential risks. Regular smoking of marijuana is associated with breathing problems such as cough and increased risk of lung infections. It can also be addicting and can cause problems with thinking, memory and coordination, anxiety, depression, and other behavioral effects that interfere with work, school, and relationships.    

It causes an increase in heart rate, which may increase the chance of heart attack in people who are already at risk. Marijuana can cause problems with brain development in adolescents through 25 years of age that can be long-lasting, including possible decline in IQ among adolescent marijuana users.

Treatment Help

Click here for a list of behavioral health resources in Broomfield.

Colorado Crisis Services

Free, confidential guidance and support is available 24/7. If you or someone you know is seeking help with marijuana use, or a mental or emotional problem, please call 800-493-TALK (8255) or visit ColoradoCrisisServices.org.

U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Confidential and anonymous source of information. Find an agency through the Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator.

Laws

Colorado legalized medical marijuana in November 2002 and recreational use of marijuana for adults 21 years and older in November 2012.

Health Education

Safe Storage Tips

In 2020, Colorado had almost 300 marijuana exposures reported to Colorado Poison Center, with almost half of products identified as marijuana candy. Below are a few steps that can help keep you and your family safe: 

  • keep marijuana in child-resistant packaging; 
  • make sure it is out of sight in a locked location;
  • look for 'THC' symbols on packages and teach children not to consume those products.

If you're worried about an exposure to a marijuana product, call the Poison Control Hotline at 1.800.222.1222 as soon as possible. Calling is free and you'll be helped quickly. If a reaction seems bad, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.

Keep in mind that safe storage may differ depending on the age of youth in your home. For more information, visit Colorado Cannibis Safe Storage.