P.E.I. health officials concerned over 'significant' increase in tobacco and weed 'poppers'

Island health officials are flagging what they say is aconcerningtrend among teenagers:More and more are inhaling large amounts of weed and tobacco mixed together and smoked using a bong, often referred to as taking hits of "poppers."

Health PEIsays its addictions counsellorshave started hearing more about poppers, as have staffin some juniors highs and high schools.

"Two years ago, we probably wouldn't have seen much use of that.But recently, we have seen a significant increase," said Lisa Thibeau, the administrator of Addictions East with Health PEI.

"Quite often I think people see tobacco and marijuana as less harmful substances.And they don't realize that by combining them, they're having an increased effect.... There are several concerns with that."

Risk of addiction, anxiety

Thibeau says those using poppersare taking on the negativehealth consequencesthat come with tobaccoand marijuana.

"Marijuanacan cause increased mental-health issues such as anxiety and psychosis.So if they're using higher amounts, they're more susceptibleto having those symptoms,"Thibeausaid.

She says young people using poppers are also at an increased risk of developing an addiction.

"What we're hearing is that it creates a more intense high. And so, people who are curious and wanting to try things are using that to have that higher experience," said Thibeau. "Any time someone starts using substances early, it leads to potential higher addiction when they're older.So that's always a concern."

Thibeau says it's not clear what's prompted the increased use of poppers, which have been around for decades.She doesn't think the legalization of recreational cannabis in October has played a significant role, given staff started to notice the trend prior to pot becominglegal.

"Often trends will come and go, and this tends to be the trend right now," she said.

She says schools and addictions staff have started emphasizing theparticular risks of poppers in presentations and one-on-one meetings.

She adds parents who spot multiplechanges in their children's behaviour like fatigue, irritability, and changes to their diet should reach out to Health P.E.I. for support.

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