Growing Concerns Over Marijuana’s Impact on Mental and Physical Health

Recent research is challenging the perception of marijuana as a harmless substance, with experts raising alarms about its potential dangers to mental and physical well-being. A growing body of scientific evidence suggests a link between marijuana use and a range of health issues, prompting a reevaluation of its widespread legalization, and normalization.

Mounting Evidence of Psychological Risks

Dr. Raymond Wiggins, an oral surgeon and author of “Weeding Out the Lies About Marijuana,” has been vocal about the psychological risks associated with marijuana use, particularly among young people. According to Dr. Wiggins, individuals who begin using marijuana at a young age and use it regularly face a two and a half times greater risk of developing psychosis. Some studies even indicate a sixfold increase in risk for regular users [1].

The risks extend beyond psychosis. Research shows that teenagers who use marijuana are at increased risk of depression, with those who started smoking as adolescents being 37% more likely to experience depression in their young adult years and later in life [1]. Young people who use marijuana are 50% more likely to contemplate suicide and three and a half to seven times more likely to attempt suicide [1]. A connection between marijuana use and bipolar disorder has also been identified in recent studies [1].

Physical Health Concerns

The potential health consequences of marijuana use are not limited to mental health. Studies suggest a correlation between marijuana use and an increased risk of several physical ailments. Research indicates a four times higher risk of developing diabetes among marijuana users and a six times higher risk of obesity [1].

While marijuana doesn’t typically cause direct fatalities in the same manner as opioids, Dr. Wiggins points to deaths resulting from heart attacks, cardiovascular disease, suicide, auto accidents, and violence [1]. Marijuana users are two and a half times more likely to die compared to non-users, with a threefold increase in risk for those with cannabis use disorder [1].

Impaired Driving and Increased Accidents

Recent studies confirm that marijuana impairs driving performance. There is a 55% increase in fatal auto accidents among individuals who use THC, along with a significant rise in injuries [1]. The potential for increased strokes and cardiovascular issues further adds to the concerns surrounding marijuana use.

Schizophrenia Risk in Liberalized States

A recent study revealed a 15-fold risk of schizophrenia in individuals with cannabis use disorder. Notably, schizophrenia associated with cannabis use disorder is three times more common in states with more liberalized marijuana laws [1].

Dr. Wiggins is actively engaging with the media to discuss these findings, including interviews with CBN News, Fox News, and One America News Network [4]. He aims to counter popular claims about marijuana’s harmlessness and highlight the growing body of evidence demonstrating its potential dangers.