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Changing the focus: the case for recognizing and treating cannabis use disorders.
Michael Dennis1, Thomas F Babor, M Christopher Roebuck
1Chestnut Health Systems (CHS), West Chestnut, Bloomington, IL 61701, USA. mdennis@chestnut.org
Addiction (Abingdon, England)
|December 4, 2002
Summary
Cannabis use has increased significantly since the 1960s, becoming more potent and problematic, especially for adolescents. Effective treatment models are crucial to address this public health issue.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Substance Use Disorders
Background:
- Cannabis has been the most prevalent illicit drug in the U.S. since the late 1960s.
- Three distinct epidemiological waves of new, younger cannabis users have emerged over the past 40 years.
- Increased cannabis potency and widespread problematic use, particularly among adolescents, highlight a growing public health concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To underscore the urgent need for developing effective treatment models for cannabis use disorders.
- To provide background information on the escalating public health challenges associated with cannabis use.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiological analysis of cannabis use trends.
- Review of public health data related to cannabis use.
- Examination of societal costs associated with cannabis use disorders.
Main Results:
- Cannabis use has shown a consistent upward trend, with increasing potency.
- Problematic cannabis use is a significant issue, particularly affecting adolescents.
- Cannabis is frequently cited in legal, medical, and treatment-related admissions.
Conclusions:
- Effective treatment strategies for cannabis use disorders are essential, irrespective of legalization debates.
- Addressing the public health problem of cannabis use requires dedicated resources and effective interventions.
- Societal costs associated with neglected cannabis use disorders continue to rise.