AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – FEBRUARY 07: A man smokes a cigarette of marijuana in an Amsterdam cafe on February 7, 2007 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
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New research featured in JAMA Psychiatry reveals an increase in cannabis use disorder (CUD) among American men and women.
The study examined data from over 180,000 adults from 2021 to 2024, discovering that CUD prevalence rose from 7.3% to 9.3% in men and from 4.5% to 5.6% in women. Additionally, moderate-to-severe CUD cases climbed from 3.1% to 4.1% in men and from 1.7% to 2.5% in women. These increases were most notable in middle-aged and older adults.
What Is Cannabis Use Disorder?
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) describes a pattern of marijuana use where individuals struggle to manage their consumption despite negative outcomes, such as work or school issues. Those affected might use more marijuana than planned, spend significant time seeking or craving it, and persist in its use despite physical and psychological issues. CUD emphasizes impaired control and significant consequences rather than frequency of use.
Misconceptions Surrounding Cannabis Use
Historically, marijuana has been viewed as a safer, less addictive drug compared to other substances. However, the study challenges this belief by highlighting the rise in CUD diagnoses. In 2024, about 36% of male cannabis users met the CUD criteria.
Modern cannabis products with high THC levels (the psychoactive component responsible for health risks) deliver much more THC than those available decades ago. Researchers from JAMA cite increased potency, greater availability, and reduced perceptions of harm as key contributors to the CUD surge.
Public Health Implications
The increase in CUD does not imply that marijuana is equally hazardous for everyone, nor does it mean that all users will develop an addiction. Cannabis does have valid medical uses, such as alleviating nerve pain or chemotherapy-induced nausea. However, it can also pose health risks, including lung diseases like bronchitis if smoked, and psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. Millions of Americans suffer from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, leading to dehydration and potentially death.
The public health dialogue around cannabis should be nuanced, focusing on education, prevention, and treatment rather than stigma.
Needed Public Health Interventions
Public education on marijuana must progress, clarifying that legalization for medical and recreational use does not equate to being “risk-free.” High-potency marijuana formulations may pose increased risks of misuse.
Healthcare providers should routinely screen patients for cannabis use, similar to alcohol and tobacco, especially those experiencing anxiety, sleep issues, or impaired functioning for which they might self-medicate. More screenings can provide opportunities to educate Americans on both the benefits and dangers of marijuana.
Individuals with CUD should receive evidence-based treatments rather than judgment. This includes behavioral interventions, counseling, and addressing coexisting mental health or substance-use disorders to help reduce or cease cannabis use.
As cannabis becomes more accessible and widely accepted, public health efforts must ensure Americans are well-informed about potential risks to make educated choices.
