Marijuana Addiction Statistics & Facts Revealed
Key Statistics about Marijuana Addiction
Here are the top 10 key statistics about marijuana addiction:
- About 30% of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder.
- People who begin using marijuana before age 18 are four to seven times more likely than adults to develop a marijuana use disorder.
- Chronic marijuana use, particularly at a very young age, can have a long-term impact on cognitive abilities.
- Individuals who started smoking marijuana heavily in their teens lost an average of 8 IQ points between ages 13 and 38.
- Marijuana has a profound effect on the brain's endocannabinoid system, which is important for normal brain development and function.
- Marijuana use is widespread, with an estimated 5.1% of the global population aged 15-64 years having used cannabis at least once in the past year.
- In the United States, 35.4% of young adults aged 18 to 25 reported using marijuana in the past year.
- In the UK, an estimated 4 million people were believed to be using marijuana on a regular basis in 2021, which included over half a million young people aged from 16 to 24.
- Marijuana use has been linked to several potential physical health risks, including an increased risk of heart attack, certain types of cancer, and Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome.
- Marijuana use can also have potential implications for mental health, including a possible link between heavy marijuana use and a decline in IQ points.
Understanding Marijuana Addiction
In an era where marijuana use is becoming increasingly accepted and even legalized in certain regions, it's crucial to be aware of the potential risks and consequences, including addiction. This section will define marijuana addiction and explain how marijuana affects the brain.
Defining Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana addiction, also known as marijuana use disorder, is characterized by an inability to stop using the drug despite it causing significant issues in a person's life. It is estimated that about 30% of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder. People who begin using marijuana before age 18 are four to seven times more likely than adults to develop a marijuana use disorder.
Many people who use marijuana long term and are trying to quit report withdrawal symptoms that make quitting difficult. These symptoms include grouchiness, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, anxiety, and cravings.
Marijuana and the Brain
Marijuana has a profound effect on the brain, specifically on the brain's endocannabinoid system. This system is important for normal brain development and function. When marijuana is consumed, the active compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interacts with the endocannabinoid system, creating the high that users experience.
Chronic marijuana use, particularly in a very young age, can also have a long-term impact on cognitive abilities. Researchers have observed a link between marijuana use, especially heavy use starting in teenage years, and a decline in IQ points. According to a study cited by the NIH - National Institute on Drug Abuse, individuals who started smoking marijuana heavily in their teens lost an average of 8 IQ points between ages 13 and 38. These lost abilities were not fully recovered in those who quit later in life. On the contrary, those who started marijuana use as adults did not show significant IQ declines.
Understanding marijuana addiction and its impact on the brain is a key aspect of a comprehensive understanding of marijuana addiction statistics & facts. It provides the necessary context for interpreting the statistics and appreciating the challenges associated with marijuana use disorder.
Marijuana Usage Across Demographics
Understanding the prevalence of marijuana use across various groups is crucial in addressing the issue of marijuana addiction. The usage trends among teens, young adults, and across global demographics provide essential insights into the broader picture of marijuana consumption.
Marijuana Use in Teens and Young Adults
A significant portion of marijuana use can be seen among teenagers and young adults. In 2021, 35.4% of young adults aged 18 to 25 (11.8 million people) in the United States reported using marijuana in the past year. Moreover, 30.7% of 12th graders reported using marijuana in the past year, with 6.3% reporting daily use. Alarmingly, nearly 20.6% of 12th graders reported vaping marijuana in the past year, with 2.1% reporting daily use.
In the UK, an estimated 4 million people were believed to be using marijuana on a regular basis in 2021, which included over half a million young people aged from 16 to 24. In England and Wales, around 13% of young people aged 16 to 24 reported using marijuana, with an estimated 2.6% reporting daily or near-daily use.
Global Marijuana Consumption Trends
On a global scale, marijuana use is widespread. In 2020, an estimated 5.1% of the global population aged 15-64 years had used cannabis at least once in the past year, representing a 3.9% increase compared to 2000 [3].
Approximately 147 million people, equating to 2.5% of the world's population, are estimated to consume cannabis annually. This surpasses the consumption rates of cocaine (0.2%) and opiates (0.2%). The abuse of cannabis has shown a more rapid growth rate compared to cocaine and opiate abuse in the present decade, particularly in developed countries like North America, Western Europe, and Australia.
These statistics highlight the widespread use of marijuana across various age groups and geographical locations. Addressing the issue of marijuana addiction requires a comprehensive understanding of these usage trends, which can aid in devising effective prevention strategies and treatment options.
Health Implications of Marijuana Use
Understanding the potential health risks associated with marijuana use is crucial when discussing marijuana addiction statistics & facts. These potential risks can be categorized into two main areas: physical health risks and mental health concerns.
Physical Health Risks
Marijuana use has been linked to several potential physical health risks. These include an increased risk of heart attack, certain types of cancer, and a condition known as Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome.
Mental Health Concerns
In addition to physical health risks, marijuana use can also have potential implications for mental health. Research has shown a possible link between heavy marijuana use, particularly when started in the teenage years, and a decline in IQ points. According to a study cited by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, individuals who started smoking marijuana heavily in their teens lost an average of 8 IQ points between ages 13 and 38. These lost abilities were not fully restored in those who quit later in life.
Moreover, the rise in popularity of edibles, which have longer digestion times and delayed effects, can lead to overconsumption. This, in turn, can potentially lead to harmful outcomes and increase the risk of addiction, especially if individuals regularly expose themselves to high THC doses.
In summary, while many individuals may use marijuana without experiencing these health risks, it's important to be aware of the potential implications. Understanding these risks can help inform decisions about marijuana use and highlight the importance of seeking help if someone is struggling with marijuana use disorder.
Trends in Marijuana Potency
In the context of marijuana addiction statistics & facts, an emerging concern is the increasing potency of marijuana, which mainly ties back to the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana. This section delves into the rise in THC levels and the implications of this increased potency.
Rising THC Levels
Over the years, marijuana's THC levels have been steadily increasing. This increase in potency may be one factor leading to a rise in emergency room visits associated with marijuana use. Particularly in edibles, higher THC concentrations can escalate the risk of harmful reactions. The popularity of edibles has also grown, resulting in longer digestion times and delayed effects. This delay can prompt individuals to consume more in an attempt to feel the high quicker, which may potentially lead to negative outcomes.
Implications of Increased Potency
The consequences of heightened THC levels in marijuana are multifaceted, impacting both physical and mental health. Physically, chronic use of marijuana, in rare instances, has been associated with Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, characterized by severe nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. This syndrome usually affects individuals under 50 years old with a history of prolonged marijuana use. Symptoms can subside if marijuana use is discontinued.
Limited evidence suggests an elevated risk of heart attack within the first hour after smoking marijuana, potentially nearly five times higher than the usual risk. This increased risk could be attributed to marijuana's effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity, as well as the potential to cause orthostatic hypotension.
From a mental health perspective, researchers have identified a link between marijuana use, especially heavy use starting in the teenage years, and a decline in IQ points. A study found that individuals who began smoking marijuana heavily in their teens lost an average of 8 IQ points between ages 13 and 38. Those who quit later in life did not fully recover these lost abilities. The study suggested that those who began marijuana use as adults did not display significant IQ declines [1].
Overall, the rise in THC levels in marijuana and the subsequent increase in potency have significant implications for users, particularly for those who consume marijuana from a young age or in high doses. It's crucial to consider these factors when addressing marijuana addiction and formulating strategies to mitigate the associated risks.
Treatment Options for Marijuana Use Disorder
Addressing marijuana use disorder requires a multifaceted approach to treatment. It's crucial to understand the current strategies in place and the research being conducted for future treatments. Let's delve into the marijuana addiction statistics & facts surrounding these treatment options.
Current Treatment Strategies
On average, adults seeking treatment for marijuana use disorders have used marijuana nearly every day for more than 10 years and have attempted to quit more than six times. People with marijuana use disorders, particularly adolescents, often suffer from other psychiatric disorders (comorbidity) and may also use or be addicted to other substances such as cocaine or alcohol [6].
Despite the prevalence of marijuana use disorder, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved any medications specifically for its treatment. However, ongoing research is examining potential pharmacological treatments to help manage symptoms of marijuana withdrawal and promote abstinence. These include medications such as zolpidem (Ambien®), buspirone (BuSpar®), and gabapentin (Horizant®, Neurontin®), which may help improve sleep and executive function, and N-acetylcysteine and FAAH inhibitors to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
Future Directions in Treatment
Looking to the future, research is exploring new approaches to manage and treat marijuana use disorders. One promising area of study involves substances known as allosteric modulators. These substances interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain, potentially inhibiting the rewarding effects of THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana.
Such advancements in treatment strategies could play a pivotal role in managing the growing prevalence of marijuana use disorder, particularly in regions where marijuana laws have changed. A study published in JAMA Network Open categorized states into three groups based on their marijuana laws: (1) states that never had enacted medical cannabis laws (MCLs) or recreational cannabis laws (RCLs), (2) states with MCL only and no RCL, and (3) states that had ever enacted RCLs. The research used a time-varying indicator to compare the date a participant was interviewed with the enacted MCL and/or RCL date in their state of residence to determine the participant's classification regarding marijuana laws.
As the legal landscape surrounding marijuana continues to evolve, so too must the strategies and interventions employed to tackle marijuana use disorder. Continued research and development in this area are vital to provide effective support to those living with this condition.
Co-Occurrence of Marijuana and Alcohol Use
The simultaneous use of marijuana and alcohol is a significant concern in many demographics. This section delves into the prevalence and consequences of this co-occurrence, along with potential interventions to manage it.
Prevalence and Consequences
Co-occurring use of alcohol and marijuana is associated with several negative outcomes. This includes greater social consequences, increased rates of alcohol dependence, higher rates of depression, and academic problems among college students. It is also linked to more frequent psychiatric disturbances, a worse prognosis for remission, greater likelihood of relapse after treatment discharge, and increased treatment utilization. Other associated risks include a greater chance of overdose, participation in HIV risk behaviors, and a higher likelihood of sexually transmitted infections [7].
The 12-month prevalence of alcohol abuse and dependence in the United States was reported to be 4.7% and 3.8% respectively, while past-year marijuana abuse was estimated at 1.1%, and past-year dependence at 0.4% [7].
In terms of racial and ethnic differences, alcohol use disorder prevalence is comparable between Whites and Hispanics, both of which have higher prevalence than African Americans. Marijuana use disorder is most prevalent among African Americans compared to other races or ethnicities. Co-occurring alcohol and marijuana use disorders are most prevalent among African Americans compared to Whites and Hispanics, and similar in Whites and Hispanics.
Potential Interventions
The co-occurrence of alcohol and marijuana use presents unique challenges for treatment and intervention strategies. A comprehensive approach that addresses both substance use disorders simultaneously may be required. This could include tailored interventions that take into account the individual's pattern of use, the severity of their substance use disorders, and associated risk factors.
The role of state laws in influencing the prevalence of marijuana use also warrants consideration. A study categorized states into three groups based on their marijuana laws: (1) states that never enacted medical cannabis laws (MCLs) or recreational cannabis laws (RCLs), (2) states with MCL only and no RCL, and (3) states that ever enacted RCLs. The findings from this study and others like it could inform policy decisions and intervention strategies aimed at managing the co-occurrence of alcohol and marijuana use.
These marijuana addiction statistics and facts underscore the complexity of the issue and emphasize the need for continued research, policy development, and intervention strategies to address the co-occurrence of marijuana and alcohol use.
Support and Resources for Marijuana Addiction
For those struggling with marijuana use disorder, there are numerous resources and support services available. These services can provide the necessary help for individuals to manage their addiction and navigate their recovery journey. Here, we will explore the services available in both the United States and Canada.
Available Services in the United States
In the United States, there are various treatment and support services for individuals dealing with marijuana addiction. These services typically include behavioral therapies, counseling, and support groups. Some of the top resources include:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): This national agency provides a free, confidential 24/7 helpline for individuals facing mental health and substance use disorders. They can provide information on treatment options and local resources.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): This organization offers extensive information and resources on drug addiction, including marijuana use disorder. They provide the latest research, treatment options, and tools for recovery.
- Marijuana Anonymous (MA): This community-based organization offers support groups and resources for individuals struggling with marijuana addiction. They follow a 12-step program similar to that of Alcoholics Anonymous.
It's important to note that seeking professional help is crucial for managing marijuana addiction. These resources can provide valuable guidance and support, but they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.
Support Services in Canada
In Canada, individuals seeking help with substance use, including marijuana addiction, can access various services such as overdose prevention resources and quit smoking services through Canada-wide services available at any time.
Support services in Canada for substance use issues offer a range of contact options including phone numbers, texting services, online chats, emails, and even Facebook Messenger for individuals in different regions.
The Canadian services include specific resources like a list of pharmacies that carry naloxone, harm reduction centers, and information for adults, youth, and frontline workers to access support via text or online platforms [9].
For instance, individuals in Canada can access frontline workers' support through texting FRONTLINE to 741741, adult support by texting WELLNESS to 741741, and youth support by texting WELLNESS to 686868 as part of the available services for substance use concerns [9].
In summary, it's essential for those struggling with marijuana use disorder to know that help is available. The services offered in both the United States and Canada include help for individuals struggling with addiction or substance use, including a focus on harm reduction strategies, naloxone distribution sites, and support services for various age groups and regions [9]. These resources are invaluable for those seeking to overcome marijuana addiction and lead healthier lives.
References
[1]: https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana
[2]: https://www.priorygroup.com/addiction-treatment/cannabis-addiction/cannabis-addiction-symptoms
[3]: https://www.unodc.org/unodc/frontpage/2022/June/unodc-world-drug-report-2022-highlights-trends-on-cannabis-post-legalization--environmental-impacts-of-illicit-drugs--and-drug-use-among-women-and-youth.html
[4]: https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/alcohol-drugs-and-addictive-behaviours/drugs-psychoactive/cannabis
[5]: https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/cannabis-marijuana
[7]: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3419382/
[8]: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2784528
[9]: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/substance-use/get-help-with-substance-use.html
