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WHO Adds Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome to ICD as ER Cases Climb Among Youth

A new diagnosis code now enables standardized surveillance of a vomiting syndrome tied to chronic cannabis use.

Overview

  • The update took effect Oct. 1 and was adopted by the CDC, giving clinicians a dedicated code to identify and study CHS.
  • National JAMA analyses report emergency-department visits rose sharply since 2016, peaking during 2020–21 and remaining elevated.
  • Adolescents and young adults show the largest increases, with teen visits rising more than tenfold through 2023 and adults 18–35 driving recent spikes.
  • Patients present with cyclical severe vomiting, abdominal pain and compulsive hot bathing; ED care centers on anti-nausea drugs and IV fluids, but lasting relief requires stopping cannabis.
  • Researchers cite rising THC potency and greater access as likely contributors yet stress that causes and individual risk factors remain unclear, with improved coding expected to refine surveillance and prevention.