New research sheds critical light on the connection between frequent cannabis use and the risk of developing psychosis. Conducted by King’s College London’s Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) and South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, the study reveals that cannabis use independently raises the likelihood of psychosis, irrespective of one’s genetic predisposition to schizophrenia. This poses significant concerns, particularly in the face of rising cannabis use and the increased potency of products available today.

Frequent Use and High Potency Carry the Greatest Risks

The study examined the impact of lifetime frequent cannabis use and found a clear link to psychosis. This risk was particularly high among those who reported daily use of high-potency cannabis, defined as products containing 10% or more of THC (Delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is the psychoactive compound predominantly responsible for the drug’s intoxicating effects.

Though the study investigated genetic predisposition to schizophrenia using polygenic risk scores (PRSs), it demonstrated that the risk from frequent cannabis use operates independently. Simply put, the environmental danger from using cannabis is significant enough to raise the likelihood of psychosis on its own.

Genetic and Environmental Risks Act Separately

Researchers emphasised an important finding — genetic vulnerability to schizophrenia and cannabis use do not appear to interact, but rather influence the risk of psychosis through separate mechanisms. This means someone with no genetic predisposition to schizophrenia may still develop psychosis through frequent or high-potency cannabis use. While there may be an additive effect for those with both genetic risk and a history of heavy use, the study highlights that cannabis alone is a considerable factor.

Implications for Health and Wellbeing

This research is vital at a time when cannabis use is becoming more widespread, with stronger strains more readily available. The findings raise serious concerns about the impact on mental health, particularly among daily users. With cannabis use capable of increasing psychosis risk regardless of genetics, this serves as a warning about the profound consequences the drug can have on individuals and society at large.

Public awareness around this issue must improve, and stronger emphasis should be placed on the severe risks associated with frequent cannabis use. Recognising the clear connection between high-potency cannabis and psychosis is essential to safeguarding mental health in our communities.

Avoiding cannabis, especially potent forms, is a critical step towards reducing this risk. With more evidence emerging about its damaging effects, it’s time to consider the broader implications for personal health and societal wellbeing.

Source: KCL