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Adverse effects of marijuana use
Kathleen E Feeney1, Kyle M Kampman1
1University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
The Linacre Quarterly
|November 12, 2016
Summary
Marijuana use among adolescents can lead to severe health issues, impacting physical, psychological, and academic well-being. Early and frequent use intensifies these negative, long-lasting effects.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Adolescent Medicine
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Marijuana is the most frequently used illicit substance in the U.S.
- Adolescent marijuana use is prevalent amidst ongoing legalization debates.
- Research indicates significant adverse health and well-being effects associated with marijuana use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on the adverse effects of marijuana use.
- To discuss the impact of marijuana on adolescent physical health, psychological well-being, and psychosocial outcomes.
- To highlight the correlation between early/frequent use and exacerbated negative outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on marijuana use and its effects.
- Analysis of research focusing on the adolescent population.
- Synthesis of findings related to physical, psychological, and academic performance impacts.
Main Results:
- Marijuana use negatively affects physical health.
- Psychological well-being and psychosocial outcomes are adversely impacted by marijuana use.
- Adolescents with earlier and more frequent marijuana use experience worse and prolonged negative effects.
Conclusions:
- Marijuana use poses significant risks to adolescent health and well-being.
- Adverse effects span physical, psychological, and academic domains.
- Intervention and prevention efforts should consider age of onset and frequency of use.
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