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Daily Cannabis Use Overtakes Daily Alcohol Consumption in the US: A New Era of Substance Use?

A groundbreaking study published in the journal Addiction has revealed a significant shift in substance use trends in the United States: for the first time, more Americans report using cannabis daily or near-daily than drinking alcohol at the same frequency. This finding, based on data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health spanning over four decades, marks a turning point in the ongoing conversation about cannabis use and its impact on public health.

In 2022, 17.7 million people reported daily or near-daily cannabis use, compared to 14.7 million people who reported drinking alcohol at the same frequency. This shift is particularly striking considering that alcohol remains more widely used overall. However, the study emphasises that high-frequency drinking is less common than high-frequency cannabis use.

The study notes a correlation between the increasing trend of cannabis use and the liberalisation of cannabis policies across the US. While this doesn't establish a direct causal link, it suggests that policy changes and cultural attitudes may be influencing consumption patterns.

With 38 states and D.C. legalising medical cannabis programs and 24 states approving recreational use, access to cannabis has expanded significantly. This has led to a diversification of products, including edibles and vapes, and a decrease in prices, potentially contributing to increased frequency of use.

While cannabis is often perceived as less harmful than other substances, experts caution about potential health consequences, including cannabis use disorder and negative effects on cognitive function. Study author Jonathan Caulkins highlights the importance of recognising the changing landscape of cannabis use and its potential impact on public health. He emphasises the need for policymakers to design policies that protect public health in light of these evolving trends.

The study also reveals that cannabis is no longer primarily a "young person's drug". In 2022, people aged 35 and older accounted for slightly more days of use than those under 35, suggesting a broader demographic shift in cannabis consumption.

This study serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, public health officials, and the general public. It highlights the need for continued research into the long-term effects of cannabis use and the development of evidence-based policies that address the changing landscape of substance use in the United States.

Read the full study here.

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