Marijuana Addiction Statistics: Usage & Abuse Rates

General Marijuana/Weed Statistics

Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the world. While many people believe that it is a harmless substance, it can lead to addiction and have negative effects on both physical and mental health.

Here are some statistics about marijuana addiction that you should know:

1. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), about 9% of marijuana users will become addicted to the drug. This number increases to 17% if the user starts using marijuana before the age of 18, and 25-50% for those who use it daily.
2. In 2019, an estimated 4.5 million people in the United States met the diagnostic criteria for marijuana use disorder. This represents about 1.6% of the population.
3. Marijuana use disorder is more common among men than women, and among those aged 18-25.
4. About 30% of people who use marijuana will develop some degree of marijuana use disorder.
5. The potency of marijuana has increased significantly in recent years, with THC levels averaging around 12% in 2013 compared to 4% in the 1980s.
6. Marijuana use can lead to impaired driving, with one study finding that driving under the influence of marijuana doubles the risk of a car crash.
7. Long-term marijuana use can have negative effects on brain development, especially in adolescents. Studies have shown that chronic marijuana use can lead to a decrease in IQ and impaired cognitive function.
8. Marijuana use during pregnancy can have negative effects on fetal development, including low birth weight and developmental problems.

How Many People Are Addicted to Marijuana?

The prevalence of marijuana addiction is a complex and multifaceted issue that can be difficult to estimate. However, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in 2019:

• Approximately 4.3 million people aged 12 or older had a marijuana use disorder.
• Of those, 1.5 million people sought treatment for their disorder.
• Among adults aged 26 or older who sought treatment for marijuana use, over half had used it daily for at least ten years.

Additionally, a study published by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that:

• In 2020, 6% of high school seniors reported daily marijuana use.
• The percentage of high school seniors who perceive regular marijuana use as harmful has decreased over the past decade, from 58% in 2010 to 35% in 2020.

These statistics illustrate the scope and impact of marijuana addiction in the United States, particularly among young people.

What Percentage of Marijuana Users Get Addicted?

According to various studies, the percentage of marijuana users who become addicted can vary widely depending on the frequency and duration of use. While some estimates suggest that as few as 9% of users will develop an addiction, others suggest that this number could be much higher for those who use marijuana daily or start using it at a young age.

Marijuana Use In The United States

One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that among people who used marijuana daily, 25-50% developed a cannabis use disorder. This disorder is characterized by symptoms such as increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms when not using, and difficulty controlling use despite negative consequences.

Another study conducted by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that among people who had used marijuana in the past year, approximately 30% had some degree of marijuana use disorder. This could include mild symptoms such as craving or impaired functioning or more severe symptoms such as compulsive drug-seeking behavior.

It's important to note that not all marijuana users will develop an addiction, and many people are able to use the drug without experiencing negative consequences. However, for those who do develop a problem with marijuana use, seeking treatment can be essential for overcoming addiction and improving overall health and well-being.

Marijuana Addiction Demographics

Marijuana addiction is a complex issue that can have a disproportionate impact on certain demographics. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA):

Marijuana Use By Gender

• Men are more likely than women to develop marijuana use disorder, with 9% of men and 6% of women who use marijuana becoming addicted.

Marijuana Use By Age

• Those aged 18-25 have the highest rates of marijuana use disorder compared to other age groups, with 16% of young adults in this age range meeting the criteria for addiction.

Marijuana Use By Race

Race and ethnicity also play a role in marijuana addiction rates. In the United States:

• Black individuals are nearly four times more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white individuals despite similar usage rates, according to the American Civil Liberties Union.
• Hispanic individuals are also more likely to be arrested for marijuana possession than white individuals, although to a lesser extent than Black individuals.

These disparities highlight the racial inequalities present in drug enforcement policies and may contribute to higher rates of marijuana addiction among certain communities. Additionally, socioeconomic status can impact an individual's likelihood of developing marijuana use disorder:

Marijuana Use By Social Status

• Those living in poverty are more likely to use marijuana than those who are not, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
• High levels of stress may also contribute to marijuana use as a coping mechanism, leading to higher addiction rates within populations experiencing chronic stress.

Overall, understanding the demographics of marijuana addiction is crucial for developing targeted prevention and treatment programs for those most at risk.

Marijuana Use In The United States

Marijuana use has been on the rise in the United States in recent years, with many states legalizing marijuana for both medical and recreational use. According to a report by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), in 2019:

• 43.5 million people aged 12 or older reported using marijuana at least once in the past year.
• This represents about 15% of the population.
• Approximately 3.1 million people aged 12 or older used marijuana for the first time within the past year.

The report also found that marijuana use was most common among young adults aged 18 to 25, with nearly one-third of this age group reporting past-year use. However, past-year use has also increased among adults aged 26 and older.

While marijuana use has become more widespread, it is still illegal under federal law and can have serious legal consequences. Additionally, while some people may believe that marijuana is harmless, it can lead to addiction and have negative effects on both physical and mental health.

What City Has The Most Marijuana Users?

According to a study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), some cities in the United States have higher rates of marijuana use than others. The study found that among people aged 12 or older, the city with the highest rate of past-year marijuana use:

• Denver, Colorado, (23.6%)
• Portland, Oregon (19.4%)
• San Francisco, California (18.7%).

It's worth noting that these cities are all located in states where marijuana has been legalized for recreational use, which could be a contributing factor to their higher usage rates. However, it's important to remember that even in states where marijuana is legal, it can still have negative effects on health and well-being if used excessively or irresponsibly.

Marijuana Use Globally

Marijuana use is not limited to the United States; it is a global phenomenon. According to the World Drug Report 2021 published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC):

• An estimated 192 million people worldwide used marijuana in 2019, making it the most commonly used illicit drug.
• The prevalence of marijuana use varies widely across regions, with North America having the highest rates of use at approximately 13% of the population aged 15-64.
• Other regions with high rates of use include Oceania, where approximately 10% of the population aged 15-64 uses marijuana, and Europe, where rates range from 4% to over 40% depending on the country.

Understanding global trends in marijuana use is important for developing effective policies and interventions to address addiction and related issues.

How Much Does The Average Marijuana User Spend?

According to a report by the RAND Corporation, the average marijuana user spends approximately $647 per year on the drug. However, this number can vary widely depending on factors such as location, frequency of use, and whether the marijuana is purchased legally or illegally.

In states where marijuana has been legalized for recreational use, prices can be lower due to increased competition and reduced risks associated with illegal sales. However, in states where marijuana is still illegal, prices can be much higher due to the added risk and complexity involved in obtaining the drug.

Additionally, those who use marijuana daily or in large quantities may spend significantly more than the average user. In some cases, this can lead to financial strain or other negative consequences such as legal trouble or job loss.

It's important for individuals who use marijuana to be aware of how much they are spending on the drug and to budget accordingly. Seeking treatment for addiction can also help individuals regain control over their finances and improve overall well-being.

Additionally, frequent users or those who prefer more potent strains may spend significantly more than occasional users. For example, a heavy user who smokes daily or uses concentrates such as wax or shatter could easily spend several thousand dollars per year on marijuana.

It's worth noting that while some people may view marijuana as a relatively inexpensive drug compared to others such as cocaine or heroin, the cost of addiction and associated health problems can far outweigh any perceived financial benefits. Seeking treatment for marijuana addiction can help individuals break free from the cycle of dependence and improve their overall quality of life.

How Many Weed-Related Deaths Happen Each Year?

While the number of deaths directly caused by marijuana use is relatively low compared to other drugs such as opioids or alcohol, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with heavy or prolonged use. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA):

• There are no known cases of fatal overdose from marijuana use alone.
• However, marijuana use can impair judgment and coordination, leading to accidents such as car crashes or falls that may be fatal. In 2019, 12% of drivers involved in fatal car accidents tested positive for THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana.
• Long-term marijuana use has been linked to respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis and lung cancer. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, smoking marijuana regularly for 20 years or more is associated with a four-fold increase in the risk of lung cancer.
• Synthetic cannabinoids (sometimes called "Spice" or "K2") have been linked to deaths and serious health problems. In 2018, there were 2,315 reported cases of exposure to synthetic cannabinoids in the United States, including 54 deaths.

It's worth noting that seeking treatment for addiction and using the drug responsibly can help reduce these risks and improve overall well-being.

It is important to note that not everyone who uses marijuana will become addicted, and many people are able to use it in moderation without experiencing negative effects. However, it is still important to be aware of the potential risks and to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with marijuana addiction.

Conclusion

In conclusion, marijuana addiction is a complex issue that affects individuals and communities across the United States and around the world. While some people may view marijuana as a harmless drug, it can lead to addiction and have negative effects on physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Understanding the demographics of marijuana addiction, as well as global trends in use, is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment programs. It's important for individuals who use marijuana to be aware of the potential risks associated with heavy or prolonged use and to seek help if they are struggling with addiction.

By working together to address this issue, we can help create healthier communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Sources:

• National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). Marijuana.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2020). Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
• Hasin, D. S., et al. (2015). Prevalence of Marijuana Use Disorders in the United States Between 2001-2002 and 2012-2013. JAMA Psychiatry, 72(12), 1235-1242.
• Center for Behavioral Health Statistics and Quality. (2016). Behavioral Health Trends in the United States: Results from the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
• Volkow, N. D., et al. (2014). Adverse Health Effects of Marijuana Use. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(23), 2219-2227.
• Ramaekers, J. G., et al. (2004). Dose-Related Risk of Motor Vehicle Crashes After Cannabis Use. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 73(2), 109-119.
• Meier, M. H., et al. (2012). Persistent Cannabis Users Show Neuropsychological Decline from Childhood to Midlife. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(40), E2657-E2664.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019). Marijuana Research Report: What are marijuana's effects on prenatal development?