News & Events
Much of our work involves measuring the difference others make. Getting involved and making our own difference is also an important part of who we are as individuals and as an organization.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is raising awareness about the growing issue of THC products being mislabeled and deceptively marketed to children. Watch Sheriff Kelly A. Martinez host a news conference held on October 25, 2024. She was joined by District 2 County Supervisor Joel Anderson and Natalie Laub, M.D. of Rady Children’s Hospital. Representatives from the San Diego County Chiefs' and Sheriff’s Association, California Department of Alcohol and Beverage Control (ABC), Neighborhood Market Association (NMA), Center for Community Research, Mano A Mano Foundation and SAY San Diego were also in attendance at the news conference.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the active compound in cannabis that causes the high sensation. Many food products or edibles such as candy, chocolate, cookies, brownies, and drinks claim to have little or no THC, but the San Diego County Sheriff's Regional Crime Laboratory's tests found they contain high levels of the drug. The consumables are sold at gas stations, smoke shops, convenience and liquor stores, dispensaries, and even major retail stores. They are often packaged in flashy, colorful designs meant to attract children and can lead to accidental consumption.
Parents and caregivers need to be aware of the risks of mislabeled THC products and ensure that all products that may contain cannabis are kept secure and out of reach of children. You can find more information at www.sdsheriff.gov/resources/THC.
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Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) is a gastrointestinal condition associated with frequent and long-term use of cannabis (marijuana).
CHS causes acute onset of recurrent episodes of severe nausea, bouts of vomiting, and intense abdominal pain that last less than 1 week. The symptoms typically start abruptly within 24 hours of the last cannabis use. People with CHS often report temporary relief of symptoms when taking hot showers or baths, which may lead to compulsive bathing
Although the exact number of people with CHS is unknown,based on emergency department surveys, CHS is estimated to affect about 2.75million people in the US yearly. From 2017 to 2021, emergency department visitsfor CHS doubled in the US and Canada and were most common among males aged 16to 34 years.
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October is National Substance Use Prevention month. CCR is proud to be a co-host of San Diego's Red Ribbon Luncheon along with the DEA and HIDTA. October 9th we will celebrate the life of DEA Special Agent "Kiki" Camarena. This is an opportunity to honor prevention, law enforcement and community members with awards highlighting their impactful work educating and informing our youth about the dangers of substance use. October 23 - 31 is National Red Ribbon week, CCR staff will be out in the community advocating for our youth.
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The Department proposes to include additional cannabinoids in the definition of “THC” or “THC or comparable cannabinoid” defined at Health and Safety Code section 111920(l). The proposed additional cannabinoids cause intoxication at various levels, as supported by scientific and clinical research data. These cannabinoids have similar chemical structures to cannabinoids known to cause intoxication. Additionally, the proposed cannabinoids can cause serious side effects including seizures, organ damage, hallucinations, paranoia, vomiting, agitation, and in extreme cases even death, all of which are signs of intoxication that has led to an increase in hospitalization, poisoning, and increased emergency department visits across California and nationwide, highlighting the urgent need for regulation.
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Yesterday CCR, San Diego County officials, Prevention, Harm reduction groups, Law Enforcment and Families placed 1203 flags on the County building lawn to commemorate the lives lost to overdose. Multiple agencies were on hand to distribute resources to the community. On Saturday, the County building will be lit up purple to commemorate the offficial International Ovedose Awareness Day on August 31.
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