Warning: Cinnamon Challenge dangerous

Study author Steven E. Lipshultz, M.D., Director of the Batchelor Children's Research Institute at the University of Miami, and his team found that the stunt has led to an increase in calls to the American Association of Poison Control Centers. According to the university press release, in the first half of 2012, the center received 178 challenge-related calls - that's more than triple the 51 calls it received the entire previous year. Of those 178 calls, 122 (69 percent) were classified as intentional misuse or abuse consistent with the "Cinnamon Challenge" and about 30 (17 percent) required medical attention.

Study authors say cinnamon is composed of cellulose fibers that don't dissolve or biodegrade and animal studies have shown that swallowing so much of it leads to lesions, scarring, and inflammation of the airways and lungs. Other effects may include a chronic lung disease called progressive pulmonary fibrosis and doctors are especially concerned about the effects on kids with asthma, pulmonary cystic fibrosis, chronic lung disease or a hypersensitivity to the spice.

"Although we cannot make a strong statement on documented pulmonary sequelae in humans, it is prudent to warn that the 'Cinnamon Challenge' has a high likelihood to be damaging to the lungs," the authors said. "These discussions can also help children learn to weigh the risks and rewards of yielding to peer pressure when considering senseless and risky behaviors."

Lipshultz wrote, "Given the allure of social media, peer pressure and a trendy new fad, pediatricians and parents have a 'challenge' of their own in counseling tweens and teens regarding the sensibilities of the choices they make and the potential health risks of this dare."

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