A new Canadian study published in JAMA Network Open highlights a troubling connection between cannabis use disorder and an elevated risk of premature death within five years. With marijuana use rising globally and daily consumption surpassing alcohol in Canada and the U.S., researchers stress the need to recognize cannabis use disorder as a significant public health issue. Dr. Daniel Myran, the study’s lead author and Canada Research Chair of Social Accountability at the University of Ottawa, emphasized that despite the increasing prevalence and potency of marijuana products, little is known about its long-term risks. This finding is especially concerning among young people, as cannabis legalization and commercial marketing continue to expand.
Key Factors
Large Study Population – The study analyzed data from 11.6 million people in Ontario over a median period of five years (2006–2021), covering individuals aged 15 to 105 years.
- Increased Risk of Premature Death – Those who required hospital-based care for cannabis use disorder were at six times the risk of death within five years compared to people of the same age in the general population.
- Major Causes of Death – After accounting for co-morbid health conditions, individuals with cannabis use disorder still faced nearly three times the risk of death from suicide, trauma, drug poisoning, and lung cancer.
- Comparison with Alcohol Use Disorder – While alcohol use disorder posed a higher risk of death, the difference in mortality risk between cannabis and alcohol use disorders was not substantial.
- Public Perception vs. Reality – Many do not perceive cannabis to have serious health risks, despite the evidence showing significant health dangers associated with cannabis use disorder.
- Need for Public Health Intervention – Addressing this issue requires greater efforts in prevention, treatment, and support services for individuals struggling with cannabis addiction.
The findings of this study underscore the urgent need to re-evaluate public perceptions of cannabis use disorder and its associated risks. While many view cannabis as relatively harmless, the increased likelihood of premature death—especially from suicide, trauma, drug poisoning, and lung cancer—reveals the serious health consequences of heavy use. The comparison with alcohol use disorder further highlights the need for greater awareness, prevention, and accessible treatment options. As cannabis consumption continues to rise globally, public health efforts must prioritize education, early intervention, and support systems to mitigate the risks and protect vulnerable individuals.
