Despite its widespread use, with 52.5 million Americans (19% of the population) having used cannabis at least once in 2021, the risks associated with marijuana are significant and alarming. Approximately 3 in 10 cannabis users develop cannabis use disorder, a risk that is even higher for those who start using before the age of 18. Cannabis use directly impacts the brain, affecting memory, learning, attention, decision-making, coordination, emotion, and reaction time. Infants, children, and teens are particularly vulnerable due to their developing brains, and long-term use can lead to severe mental health issues, including an increased risk of psychosis or schizophrenia. Furthermore, using cannabis during pregnancy can lead to complications, making it crucial for pregnant and breastfeeding individuals to avoid it. Given these serious health implications, it is important to consider the potential dangers and make informed decisions about marijuana use.
Resources
National Surveys That Collect Information About Cannabis Use
CDC Sponsored Surveys
Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS)
World’s largest, continuously conducted telephone survey that tracks health behaviors, chronic diseases, and preventive health practices among noninstitutionalized adults in the United States.
Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS)
Monitors six categories of priority health risk behaviors, including cannabis use, among high school youth at national, state, and local levels.
Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS)
Collects state-specific, population-based data on cannabis use before, during, and shortly after pregnancy.
National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)
Assesses the health and nutritional status of adults and children, aged 12 years and older, in the United States. The survey is unique in that it combines interviews and physical examinations. Voluntary drug use questions ask lifetime cannabis use, age of first use, age when starting to use cannabis regularly, amount used, frequency of use, and time since last use. These data are available from 2005-2007 survey period onward.
If you or someone you know is struggling with cannabis use, it’s crucial to seek support and guidance. The risks associated with marijuana use—ranging from cognitive impairments to serious mental health issues—underscore the importance of addressing any problematic use early on. Support is available, and professionals can help navigate the path to healthier choices. Don’t hesitate to reach out to resources, whether through counseling, support groups, or medical professionals, to ensure a safer and more informed approach to cannabis use. Your well-being and health are worth it.
Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/cannabis/data-research/facts-stats/index.html
