Research published over the summer links marijuana use with earlier onset of psychosis.
Nationwide, policymakers have legalized marijuana to varying degrees, and federal regulators have eased restrictions on the drug. But healthcare experts continue voicing concerns about the harm that marijuana may cause users.
In August, researchers from UNSW Sydney published a study showing that marijuana users develop psychosis two-and-a-half years earlier than non-users.
Researchers examined studies involving more than 71,000 people primarily from Europe, North America and Australia. They concluded that earlier onset of psychosis becomes greater with age, with marijuana users in their 30s developing psychosis more than six years sooner than non-users.
Contrary to popular belief, a number of health problems have been linked to marijuana and hemp.
THC — the main psychoactive substance in marijuana — has been tied repeatedly to everything from heart disease and cancer to stroke, mental illness, and birth defects.
In fact, researchers now say marijuana use doubles a person’s risk of death from heart disease.
In 2024, lab testing from California found many marijuana products contained “concerning” levels of pesticides. Other research found marijuana often was contaminated with arsenic, lead, or mold, and that marijuana users may suffer from higher levels of heavy metals in their blood. These contaminants can cause serious health problems.
And instead of decreasing crime, marijuana’s legalization has actually emboldened drug cartels and increased the flow of illegal drugs across America.
All of this underscores what we have said for years: Marijuana may be many things, but “harmless” simply is not one of them.
Articles appearing on this website are written with the aid of Family Council’s researchers and writers.
