A new study published in the journal JAMA Network Open has found a significant link between cannabis use disorder and an increase in schizophrenia cases in Ontario, Canada. The research, which analyzed health data from over 13 million people, shows that the number of new schizophrenia cases linked to cannabis use disorder more than doubled after the legalization of non-medical cannabis in 2018.
The study suggests that high-potency cannabis may be exacerbating the condition, and researchers are calling for a review of the long-term effects of the drug. The findings indicate that regular cannabis use is strongly associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia, particularly among younger males.
According to the research, about 10% of individuals with cannabis use disorder developed schizophrenia during the study period, compared to just 0.6% of those without a cannabis use disorder. The study’s authors stress that their findings do not imply that cannabis use directly causes schizophrenia but rather suggest that heavy cannabis use can worsen symptoms and prognosis for those living with the condition.
The research highlights the need for targeted prevention strategies, particularly for younger populations who appear to be at greatest risk. As Dr. Daniel Myran, co-author of the study, stated, “Our study underscores the growing public health challenge posed by the combination of increasingly high-potency cannabis and rising regular cannabis use.”
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/cannabis-marijuana-potent-schizophrenia-b2693210.html