A summit will be held this month exploring the science of cannabis, its interaction with human genetics and how personalised medicine can shape the future of health and wellness.

The event, “The Science Behind 4Twenty”, has been organised by the Bermuda Cannabis Association, in partnership with CariGenetics, a genetic research laboratory.

The announcement follows a report by The Royal Gazette on Monday giving details on emergency room admissions linked to cannabis and legal recreational hemp products

The BCA highlighted figures provided by the Bermuda Hospitals Board showing that people below 18 amounted to 10 per cent of ER arrivals in the last two years.

The group said it illustrated a need for education on the issue.

A spokesman added: “Building on the success of CariGenetics’ Caribbean cannabis genomics pilot study, using its cannabis metabolism test 4Twenty, this initiative aims to share recent data insights that show key genetic differences in how people of Caribbean ancestry metabolise THC and CBD.”

The genetics firm reported last year that it had developed tests to give insights for users of medicinal cannabis into how their bodies react to cannabinoids

The summit will also explore the implications of its findings for pain management, sleep, mental health and overall wellness, and will include interactive Q&A sessions, wellness networking and on-site genetic testing for attendees who want to explore their personal cannabinoid metabolism.

The BCA will lead a discussion around cannabis education, testing and how personalised genetic insights can be used to provide more tailored care for individuals exploring medicinal cannabis.

Featured speakers come from the medical community including Carika Weldon, geneticist and founder of CariGenetics; Antoinette Dyer-Stewart, an epidemiologist; Cindy Morris, a chronic pain physician; and Jennie Lightbourne, a pharmacist.

Kim Caisey, president of the Bermuda Cannabis Association, said: “Education, health and safety is at the heart of what we stand for at BCA. Events like this are critical for shifting the cannabis conversation from stigma to science.

“We are proud to collaborate with CariGenetics to empower individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to make informed choices, because when care is personalised, outcomes improve.”

Dr Weldon said: “This event is about empowering our community with the science. Cannabis is becoming an important part of wellness conversations, but the way it interacts with each person is deeply personal — because it’s in our genes.

“We want to ensure the Caribbean is not left out of this conversation. This is about education, data and, ultimately, better health for all.”

The event will be held at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute on April 19 between 4pm and 7pm.

Tickets cost $35 for BCA members and $50 for non-members, while the optional 4Twenty genetic test costs $100.