Gallup reports the percentage adults in the U.S. who say they smoke marijuana has more than doubled since 2013.
Gallup has tracked marijuana use for more than a decade. The latest data released this month shows:
- Marijuana use has risen from 7% of U.S. adults in 2013 to 15% in 2024.
- Men are more likely than women to say they smoke marijuana.
- Democrats (23%) are more than twice as likely as Republicans (10%) to report using marijuana.
- Regionally, the highest rates of marijuana usage are in the West (19%), Midwest (16%) and East (16%). Marijuana use is lower in the South, where 11% report using it.
The increase in marijuana use is troubling, given how research continues to show that marijuana is both addictive and harmful.
A study published in JAMA Otolaryngology found daily marijuana use is linked to a higher risk of head and neck cancers.
Marijuana can damage adolescent brains — resulting in permanent loss in IQ, difficulty thinking and problem-solving, reduced coordination, and increased risk of psychosis.
A large study published in February found marijuana use is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular problems. Another study published last year found heavy users faced about 60% higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular problems.
The list goes on.
As marijuana use increases in America, people need to understand: 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.
