Synthetic Cannabinoid Use and Sports-Related Concussion Risk Among US Adolescents: Implications for School Health Screening and Prevention.

BACKGROUND

Synthetic cannabinoids (SCs), such as Spice and K2, appeal to adolescents because they are inexpensive and often evade standard drug tests. We assessed associations between SC use and sports-related traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) among US adolescents.

METHODS

We analyzed nationally representative Youth Risk Behavior Survey data from 2017-2021 (n = 27,482). Sports-related TBIs were defined as self-reported concussion in the past year. SC use was defined as lifetime use. Weighted multivariable logistic regression assessed the associations, adjusting for demographic and behavioral factors.

RESULTS

Overall, 6.0% reported SC use, and 13% reported a sports-related TBI. TBI prevalence was higher among SC users (22.9%) than non-users (12.4%). SC use was associated with increased odds of a sports-related TBI (AOR 1.48, 95% CI 1.30-1.70). Other significant predictors included boys vs. girls (AOR 1.38, 95% CI 1.28-1.49), Black race vs. White (AOR 1.26, 95% CI 1.13-1.40), current alcohol use (AOR 1.75, 95% CI 1.61-1.91), marijuana use (AOR 1.16, 95% CI 1.05-1.28), depressive symptoms (AOR 1.21, 95% CI 1.11-1.32), and suicidal ideation (AOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.03-1.25).

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY: Incorporating SC-use screening into sports physicals and improving equitable access to concussion education may help reduce preventable injuries.

CONCLUSIONS

SC use is associated with elevated sports-related concussion risk among adolescents.