Newly-released research conducted by Carnegie Mellon University cannabis policy researcher Jonathan Caulkins suggests that more Americans use marijuana daily than drink alcohol every day. The study, published in the journal Addiction, utilized data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The research found that 17.7 million Americans reported using marijuana daily or near-daily in 2022, outnumbering the 14.7 million people in the U.S. who reported consuming alcohol daily or almost daily. This marks the first time in American history that daily marijuana consumers have exceeded daily alcohol users.
Caulkins commented that 40% of current cannabis users are using it daily or near daily, a practice that is more associated with tobacco use than typical alcohol consumption. However, experts have warned about the dangers of excessive marijuana use. Massachusetts General Hospital data analyst Dr. Abra Jeffers emphasized that marijuana is not harmless, citing research that suggests using marijuana, especially through smoking, is as harmful as smoking tobacco cigarettes. She noted that any level of marijuana use increases health risks, with higher frequency of use leading to greater risks.
While the National Cannabis Industry Association has claimed that cannabis is safer than alcohol, University of Colorado School of Medicine professor Dr. Robert Page cautioned that excessive marijuana consumption can pose risks to cardiovascular health. He emphasized the need for public education on the potential of cannabis to trigger cardiovascular events and advised individuals to make informed decisions about their cannabis use. Page also highlighted the negative impact of marijuana on cognition and mental health, urging users to be honest with healthcare providers and seek medical approval before using the drug daily.
The study’s findings on the prevalence of daily marijuana use raise concerns about the potential health implications of frequent cannabis consumption. Experts have underscored the need for responsible use of marijuana and for individuals to engage in open, non-judgmental conversations with healthcare providers about their cannabis use. The study’s results highlight the evolving landscape of substance use in the United States and suggest a shift towards greater daily marijuana consumption compared to alcohol consumption. Continued research and public education on the risks and benefits of marijuana use are essential to inform individuals and promote safer practices.
