Daily Marijuana Use Surpasses Drinking in U.S.

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
Daily and near-daily marijuana use has surpassed similar levels of drinking in the U.S. for the first time in 2022, with an estimated 17.7 million people using marijuana daily compared to 14.7 million daily drinkers. This trend is attributed to changes in public policy and increased acceptance of marijuana use.

Key Points

  • Daily and near-daily marijuana use more common than high-frequency drinking in the U.S.
  • Per capita rate of reporting daily or near-daily marijuana use increased 15-fold from 1992 to 2022
  • More states allowing medical or recreational marijuana use
  • Federal government considering reclassification of marijuana as a less dangerous drug

Pros

  • Reflects changing public attitudes towards marijuana use
  • May lead to increased research and understanding of marijuana addiction

Cons

  • Higher risk of developing problematic cannabis use or addiction with high-frequency use
  • Increased risk of developing cannabis-associated psychosis