Marijuana use has increased considerably over the last
decade and its effects continue to cause concern. In a National
Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) study published earlier this month in Psychological
Magazine, researchers found a connection between cannabis use disorder and
schizophrenia, citing that young men may be at the highest risk for developing schizophrenia
from cannabis abuse.
Data from the last 5 decades was used in part of the
study analysis. It showed that 30% of schizophrenia cases involving 21-to-30-year-old
men could be prevented by averting cannabis use disorder – conditions that are
treatable but can “profoundly impact people’s lives.” Common symptoms of
schizophrenia include hallucinations, delusions, though disorder, and movement
disorder.
According to NIDA Director and study co-author Dr. Nora
Volkow, “The entanglement of substance use disorders and mental illnesses is a
major public health issue, requiring urgent action and support for people who
need it. As access to potent cannabis products continues to expand, it is
crucial that we also expand prevention, screening, and treatment for people who
may experience mental illnesses associated with cannabis use.”
Marijuana use among young adults is increasing. In 2011,
fewer than 30% of adults ages 19-30 said they used marijuana at some point
during the year; however, numbers grew to over 40% by 2021. National
Institutes of Health data also confirms that the percentage of daily cannabis
users aged 19-30 has nearly doubled, from 6% in 2011 to 11% in 2021.
Researchers and scientists recommend that public education
campaigns be directed at increasing awareness of the health risks of cannabis. This
is just one more reason why parents, caregivers, and educators must continue
important conversations with children about the risks of using marijuana and
other drugs. Prevention Education can help young people learn the facts and
skills needed to help them act responsibly and avoid becoming the next
substance abuse statistic.
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