Date of Award

Spring 2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Director of Thesis

Pieter Baker

Second Reader

Tahrima Mohsin Mohona

Abstract

After the 2018 Farm Bill passed, loopholes were quickly found that led to the popularization of delta-8 THC, a derivative of delta-9 THC, more commonly known as marijuana. Use of this substance became particularly high in states that criminalized marijuana, such as South Carolina. This scoping review aimed to assess South Carolina’s current delta-8 policies in the context of health-related impacts among college-aged students. Comprehensively analyzing the results of relevant studies, it was determined that there are three commonly observed threats to public health that are direct outcomes of existing policies: 1) a lack of quality control standards; 2) misleading marketing practices; and 3) the absence of regulatory oversight within South Carolina. Furthermore, this review highlights elevated risks for those who use THC-containing vapes and those who are underage, particularly within the college-aged demographic. Health professionals and policymakers are urged to spread awareness of risks related to delta-8 and to reassess the efficacy of current policies in protecting public health.

First Page

1

Last Page

24

Rights

© 2025, Emily K. Luoma

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