Daily Marijuana Use Surpasses Daily Alcohol Consumption in the U.S.

A groundbreaking study reveals that more Americans now use marijuana daily than drink alcohol every day, marking a significant shift in substance use patterns.

The American landscape of substance use has undergone a profound transformation, with marijuana consumption eclipsing alcohol intake on a daily basis. According to a groundbreaking study published in the journal Addiction, 17.7 million Americans reported using marijuana every day or near-daily in 2022, compared to only 14.7 million who reported daily or almost daily alcohol consumption in the same year.

This startling finding represents a pivotal moment in the history of substance use, as it marks the first time in recorded history that daily marijuana consumers have outnumbered daily alcohol users. The research, led by Carnegie Mellon University cannabis policy researcher Jonathan Caulkins, utilized data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

The study highlights the increasing prevalence of marijuana use among Americans, with approximately 40% of current users consuming the substance daily or near daily. This pattern of use is more akin to tobacco consumption than to typical alcohol consumption, raising concerns about the potential health implications of excessive marijuana use.

Experts in the field have repeatedly emphasized the risks associated with daily marijuana use. Dr. Abra Jeffers, a data analyst at Massachusetts General Hospital, underscores the dangers of excessive marijuana consumption, equating it to the harmful effects of smoking tobacco cigarettes. Dr. Robert Page, a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, cautions that excessive marijuana use can pose threats to cardiovascular health, including the potential for serious cardiovascular events.

Marijuana's psychotropic effects can also negatively impact users' cognition and mental health. Dr. Page explains that cannabinoids can alter perception and mental status, carrying similar side effects to psychotropic prescription medications. The doctor advises that cannabis smokers be transparent with their healthcare providers about their use and seek medical approval before opting for daily consumption.

The study's findings have sparked a surge of debate and discussion surrounding the consequences and implications of the rise in daily marijuana use. While the National Cannabis Industry Association maintains that cannabis is safer than alcohol, health professionals continue to raise concerns about the substance's potential risks.

The contrasting perspectives reflect the ongoing evolution of marijuana policies and attitudes in the United States. As more states legalize recreational marijuana, it is crucial to engage in evidence-based conversations about the potential health risks and benefits of marijuana use. By staying informed and making informed decisions, individuals can navigate the complexities of substance use in the 21st century.