Cognitive Impairments
Long-term cannabis users have been found to experience a decline in IQ by an average of 5.5 points from childhood, along with deficits in learning and processing speed compared to non-users. These cognitive impairments were more pronounced with increased frequency of use, suggesting a potential causative link. Additionally, long-term users exhibited smaller hippocampi, the brain region responsible for learning and memory. Notably, individuals who used cannabis less than once a week without developing dependence did not show these cognitive deficits. Harvard Health
Life Success Metrics
A study from the University of Queensland examined the life outcomes of marijuana users and found that adults who continued using cannabis after age 30 tended to have lower success rates across various measures, including education, income, home ownership, relationship status, and reported happiness. These negative effects were specifically relevant to those who smoked into their 30s, indicating that youthful experimentation might not yield the same results. Futurism+5Bored Daddy+5USA people+5Matheus Feed
Brain Structure Changes
Research has also revealed structural changes in the brains of long-term cannabis users. These changes include alterations in brain regions associated with motivation and reward processing. However, the causality of these changes remains uncertain, and more targeted research is needed to fully understand the implications. CDC+9SciTech Daily+9Harvard Health+9
Considerations
While cannabis use is becoming more accepted for medical and recreational purposes, these findings suggest that continued use into adulthood may have unintended consequences. It’s important for individuals to weigh the potential risks and benefits, especially as they age. Further research is necessary to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabis use and to inform public health decisions.
