A new study indicates that genetics may make marijuana use more dangerous for some people than for others.
Researchers at Yale University School of Medicine analyzed genetic data from a little over a million people worldwide, identifying genes associated with marijuana addiction and other health complications.
The study’s authors noted that chronic marijuana use is tied to “various cancers associated with inhaling combustion products,” decreased cognitive ability, and increased risk for schizophrenia.
The study found genetics play a role in the likelihood a marijuana user will develop “cannabis use disorder” — meaning they will be unable to stop using marijuana even though it’s causing health and social problems in their lives.
The study also found possible genetic links between marijuana use and a person’s risk of developing other serious health problems, and revealed a correlation between cannabis use disorder and schizophrenia.
More and more, science reveals that marijuana poses serious health risks.
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.
