The use of cannabis is often perceived as harmless, but recent research sheds light on the concerning long-term effects of cannabis, particularly on memory and brain function. These findings highlight why awareness around this issue is so important.

Long-Term Effects of Cannabis on Brain Function

A groundbreaking study involving over 1,000 participants aged 22 to 36 has revealed how heavy cannabis use can alter brain activity. This research found that individuals who had used cannabis more than 1,000 times in their lifetime displayed reduced brain activity during memory-related tasks. These long-lasting effects persisted even after they stopped using the drug. One study even noted, “The researchers found that 63% of heavy lifetime cannabis users exhibited reduced brain activity during a working memory task, while 68% of recent users also demonstrated a similar impact” (CU Anschutz).

Areas of the brain responsible for working memory showed the most notable changes. Working memory plays a crucial role in everyday life, helping people hold and process information for a short period, such as remembering directions or solving a problem. Reduced brain activity in these regions can hinder someone’s ability to focus, make decisions, and retain important details.

Lasting Impacts of Cannabis on Cognitive Performance

The study highlighted a concerning decline in cognitive performance for heavy cannabis users. Another research article reported that “Long-term cannabis users’ IQs declined by 5.5 points on average from childhood, and there were deficits in learning and processing speed compared to people that did not use cannabis” (Harvard Health). These findings suggest that deeper cognitive functions, such as attention and memory, can suffer lasting damage over extended use.

Interestingly, while memory and attention were notably affected, other abilities such as emotional processing, logical thinking, and language skills remained largely intact. However, these impacts on memory alone underline the lasting effects of cannabis on cognitive performance in daily life.

Understanding the Risks of Cannabis Use

These findings arrive at a time when cannabis use is becoming more prominent and societal attitudes towards it are shifting. While its growing legalisation globally might paint it as risk-free, this study serves as a reminder of the significant and lasting consequences of heavy usage. Long-term effects like impaired memory can shape a person’s ability to live a full and productive life.

It is vital to evaluate these risks, especially in a culture that increasingly normalises cannabis use. Preventing exposure, particularly during formative years, can safeguard the brain from these lasting consequences.

Source: Study Finds