New research has underlined the severe consequences of marijuana addiction, painting a stark picture of its impact on public health. A large-scale Canadian study reveals that individuals diagnosed with cannabis dependency are nearly three times more likely to die within five years compared to the general population. Those suffering from this condition face increased risks of suicide, traumatic injuries, drug poisoning, and lung cancer, with suicide risk rising tenfold.

The study highlights the alarming toll of marijuana addiction, showing that 3.5% of patients with cannabis dependency seeking emergency or hospital care died within five years. This contrasts markedly with a 0.6% death rate among peers without the condition. Experts warn that this may underestimate the true scale of harm, as the majority of those struggling with dependency do not seek medical help.

Young adults aged 25 to 44 were found to be the most at risk, with researchers urging robust preventative measures and treatment strategies. Psychiatrist Dr Laura Bierut emphasises that today’s cannabis is far stronger and more harmful than in previous decades, likening its health risks to those posed by alcohol abuse.

A related study examined how Canada’s legalisation of recreational cannabis has affected mental health outcomes. Although schizophrenia rates remained stable, the proportion of cases linked to cannabis dependency nearly tripled, rising from 3.7% before legalisation to 10.3% afterwards. Cases of psychosis unassociated with schizophrenia also doubled, with individuals aged 19 to 24 — a particularly vulnerable stage of brain development — disproportionately affected.

Experts warn that the increased potency and accessibility of cannabis are exacerbating the public health crisis. These studies underscore the urgent need for enhanced awareness, intervention, and prevention efforts to address the devastating effects of marijuana addiction and cannabis dependency on individuals and communities.

Source: The New York Times