Cannabis (also known as marijuana or weed) is the most commonly used drug in the United States, and it is becoming more popular in all corners of our communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 52.5 million people have used cannabis at least once since 2021, and rates of dependency and addiction to cannabis may be raising due products becoming stronger and the lack of regulation for synthetic cannabis.
Young people have higher risk of negative and
permanent health effects from using cannabis.
Cannabis use in youth populations can have serious effects on the brain and body, and may even cause permanent damage:
- Short-term Effects
- Decrease in coordination
- Slower reaction times and decision making
- Increase in blood pressure
- Spikes in anxiety
- Long-Term Effects
- Impacts on development of the areas in the brain that control mood regulation, learning, decision making, memory formation, and attention
- Insomnia
- Loss of IQ points
Long-term or heavy cannabis use has also been linked to increased risk of depression, anxiety, self-harm, psychosis, and schizophrenia, as well as heart disease and stroke.
Young people also have higher risk of becoming addicted to cannabis.
On average, 3 in 10 people who use cannabis have cannabis use disorder (CUD), which is when a person cannot stop using cannabis even if they know it is harmful for their health and well-being. In youth populations, however, the risk of addiction is even higher. When cannabis use starts before the age of 18, the rate of addiction raises to 1 in 6 people. Download an informational flyer – Know the Risks: Young People and Cannabis.
Cannabis products come in many different forms—
be vigilant about checking labels and packaging.
Cannabis comes in many different forms. It can be smoked, vaped, dabbed as an oil, or even consumed as a food or drink. It is important for young people to be able to recognize a cannabis product to avoid any accidental consumption—look out for this symbol so you know to avoid it.
Breathe California has resources for you.
Breathe California of the Bay Area, Golden Gate, and Central Coast is dedicated to educating our young community members about the risks and side effects associated with cannabis use. Check out these resources below to learn more:
- “Know the Risks: Youth and Cannabis” Fact Sheet, Breathe California
- “Cannabis and How it Impacts Your Health” Presentation, Breathe California
- “Cannabis: Asthma and COPD” Factoid
Our youth advocacy group, Youth for Lungs, provides peer support and guidance for any teen or young adult who wants to quit or get involved with promoting lung health in our communities. Download a Y4L flyer. To connect with Youth for Lungs, please email y4l@lungsrus.org.
For more information, you can also visit these links: