The Basics
Does marijuana use lead to other drug use?
Yes, marijuana is considered a gateway drug - a habit-forming drug, that may lead to the use of other addictive drugs.
The percentage of Americans who have tried marijuana at least once
Nearly 50% of Americans - in 2023
How can marijuana affect athletic performance?
Research shows that marijuana affects timing, movement, and coordination, which can harm athletic performance.
1 in 6 teenagers who smoke marijuana will become addicted
True - the younger you start, the higher your risk for addiction
The number of states that have legalized recreational marijuana use
There are 24 states in the United States as of August 2024 & 3 U.S. territories, and D.C.
% of THC found on most marijuana today?
15% THC. This is 10-15 times higher than the THC content in the 1970s, and may explain why some parents have been less affected than younger users today.
How many teens try marijuana for the first time every day?
Studies show that 3,300 teens try weed for the first time every day, which showcases its distinct prevalence among youth.
Brain health: How many IQ point can marijuana cause a person to permanently lose?
As much as 8 points when people start using it at a young age. These IQ points do not come back, even after quitting marijuana.
Marijuana is the most commonly used illegal substance in the U.S.
True - its use is growing.
Are men more likely than women to use marijuana before getting behind the wheel?
Yes. A study shows 12% of men reported using marijuana and 5% reported using both marijuana and alcohol before driving, compared with 8% and 3% of women.
What is the main active ingredient in marijuana?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol AKA - THC
What's the number (or percentage) of American adults who currently use marijuana?
15.3% -According to the CDC (2022)
How does marijuana use during pregnancy impacts the baby’s health and development?
It may cause fetal growth restriction, premature birth, stillbirth, and problems with brain development, resulting in hyperactivity and poor cognitive function. THC and other chemicals from marijuana can also be passed from a mother to her baby through breast milk, further impacting a child’s healthy development.
Marijuana has been shown to cause mental illness
True - There is evidence to support that cannabis use may trigger and worsen psychosis and schizophrenia.
Your state has okayed marijuana in certain forms. Does that mean it’s federally legal?
Even though some states are legalizing marijuana, it’s only under certain conditions — which can vary. And marijuana remains illegal at the federal level.