Title: Study Shows High Prevalence of Cannabis Use Disorder in Washington State
Subtitle: Legalization of marijuana does not reduce the risk of developing cannabis use disorder, study finds
Date: [Insert Date]
Washington state, one of the first states to fully legalize cannabis, has seen a significant prevalence of cannabis use disorder (CUD), including among those who use medical marijuana, according to a recent study. The findings challenge the perception that medical marijuana users have a lower risk of developing a cannabis use disorder.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, conducted by researchers from the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine in Seattle, examined nearly 110,000 patients of a Kaiser Permanente integrated health system in Washington State. Out of these patients, 5,000 were asked confidential questions about their marijuana use in the past year, with only those who reported cannabis use in the past 30 days included in the study.
Lead author Gwen Lapham, assistant professor at the Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine, emphasized that cannabis use disorder is common among primary care patients in Washington state, where cannabis use is legal. To be diagnosed with CUD, individuals must exhibit two or more symptoms such as craving weed, increased tolerance, using more than intended, continued use despite problems in life, use in high-risk situations, withdrawal symptoms, and inability to quit.
The study also revealed that using both medical and recreational marijuana led to a more severe addiction compared to using medical marijuana alone.
Dr. Alexandre Dumais, associate clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of Montreal, who was not involved in the research, highlighted the frequency of marijuana use as an important risk factor for the development of cannabis use disorder. The study found that 38.8% of medical cannabis users, 25.2% of non-medical cannabis users, and 56.1% of mixed medical and non-medical cannabis users consume marijuana daily or almost daily. Furthermore, 39.7% of mixed users reported consuming marijuana more than three times per day.
The study’s findings align with similar research conducted in the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, France, and the United States. A meta-analysis of these countries revealed that 22% of cannabis users would develop a cannabis disorder during their lifetime, with the risk rising to 33% for younger individuals who engage in weekly or daily use of marijuana.
Dr. Beth Cohen, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the potential harms of cannabis use as it becomes increasingly legal and available. Cohen stated that while many individuals can use cannabis without becoming addicted, the high rates of CUD highlight the need for better understanding and education among the public and healthcare providers.
Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications for treating cannabis use disorder. Consequently, behavior-based treatments and specialized addiction centers are typically utilized. Not seeking treatment for CUD can result in various consequences including a higher risk of developing mental disorders, cognitive deficits, increased use of psychiatric services, hospitalization, and even violent behavior.
Overall, the study serves as a reminder that the legalization of cannabis does not mitigate the risk of developing cannabis use disorder. It highlights the need for comprehensive education and support for individuals to make informed decisions regarding marijuana use, as well as the importance of early identification and treatment of cannabis use disorder.
Note: The content of this article is based on the information provided in the cited study and statements from the researchers and experts involved.