The availability of cannabis has grown significantly over the past two decades, with legalisation for medical use in most US states and recreational use in nearly half. This surge has coincided with a reduced perception of harm amongst the public and an alarming rise in consumption rates across all age groups, including older adults. Despite this rapid change, the understanding of cannabis’s true impact on public health, societal well-being, and individual safety remains incomplete.

The Rising Use and Its Consequences

Cannabis use has been steadily growing. Recent surveys highlight a dramatic increase from 11% to 22% in past-year usage rates among the population aged 12 and over. Simultaneously, the cannabis industry’s production of high-potency THC products, alongside other lesser-studied cannabinoids, presents heightened risks. Regular use of such potent products is linked to significant health harms, including dangerous psychoactive reactions and physical conditions like hyperemesis syndrome, characterised by recurring vomiting.

Beyond individual usage, communities have reported concerning patterns linked to cannabis use. Emergency department visits from accidental ingestion, cannabis-impaired driving incidents, and psychotic episodes are becoming more prevalent. With insufficient safeguards in many jurisdictions, the vulnerabilities continue to escalate.

Public Policies and Health Risks

The regulatory frameworks around cannabis vary widely between regions, making it challenging to draw comparisons or develop targeted national strategies. Research into cannabis-related health outcomes across different policy environments is critical, especially as cannabis is consumed in more ways than ever before. Reports recommend exploring tighter restrictions on sales and marketing, capping THC content, and implementing measures like state-controlled distribution.

While some policies have sought to promote equity and expunge outdated cannabis offences, the potential for public health benefits could remain unrealised if strong safeguards are not simultaneously introduced. The unchecked commercialisation of cannabis places profits above community well-being, which could exacerbate existing health and social problems.

The Need for Targeted Research and Surveillance

To tackle the mounting challenges from increased cannabis use, extensive and well-targeted research is essential. Studies are needed to assess cannabis’s effects on specific population groups such as young people, pregnant women, older adults, and those with existing medical conditions. Further evaluation of newer and more potent synthetic cannabinoids is also critical.

Surveillance plays a key role in this effort. Improved data collection on consumption patterns, health impacts, and product distribution will offer essential insights. Developing reliable methods of detecting cannabis impairment, akin to alcohol tests, could also help reduce risks associated with cannabis-influenced behaviour, especially on the roads. The safety of individuals and communities must depend on evidence-led approaches, bolstered by robust monitoring systems.

Cannabis research must prioritise public health and safety, ensuring the contents of products are transparent and regulated. .

Source: NIDA