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A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry reveals that state-level medical cannabis laws (MCLs) are associated with significant increases in cannabis use disorder (CUD) and cannabis poisoning. Recreational cannabis laws (RCLs), meanwhile, are linked to an increase in cannabis poisoning cases.
The study, led by Jayani Jayawardhana, Ph.D., from the College of Public Health at the University of Kentucky, analyzed data spanning January 2011 to December 2021 from over 110 million adults aged 18 to 64 across all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. The researchers evaluated the prevalence of CUD and cannabis poisoning diagnoses before and after the implementation of MCLs and RCLs.
Key Findings
- States with MCLs saw a significant increase in CUD diagnoses, rising by 31.09 cases per 100,000 enrollees per quarter. Cannabis poisoning diagnoses also increased by 0.76 cases per 100,000 enrollees per quarter.
- States with RCLs experienced a smaller but notable rise in cannabis poisoning diagnoses, with an increase of 0.34 cases per 100,000 enrollees per quarter.
- No significant changes were observed related to the opening of medical cannabis dispensaries or the legalization of home cultivation for medical purposes.
Demographic Insights
The study highlighted demographic variations in CUD increases associated with MCLs. Female participants and adults aged 35 to 44 years experienced higher relative increases compared to males and other age groups.
Implications for Public Health
The authors of the study emphasize the potential burden these trends may place on healthcare systems. They urge policymakers to accompany cannabis legalization with interventions and treatments to address adverse health effects related to cannabis use.
“This research underscores the need for a balanced approach to cannabis legislation that prioritizes public health alongside legalization efforts,” the authors concluded.
Further Information
The study, “Association of State Cannabis Legalization With Cannabis Use Disorder and Cannabis Poisoning,” was published online on December 23, 2024, in JAMA Psychiatry.
Reference:
Jayani Jayawardhana et al, JAMA Psychiatry (2024). DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.4145
