Articles tagged with Cannabis
A recent study from the Center for BrainHealth at UT Dallas found that cannabis users exhibit increased synchronization and activation of brain waves during rest, compared to nonusers. This 'noisy brain' may disrupt cognitive processes.
Chronic inflammation caused by failed sensor mechanism can lead to brain cells' loss in old age. The study suggests that CB1 receptors on neurons control microglial cell activity.
The study examines the prevalence and types of psychoactive substances used in Albania, revealing a significant increase in drug users since 2012. Cannabis is the most commonly used substance, particularly among young people, while heroin and cocaine also show notable usage.
Researchers at the Center for BrainHealth investigated concurrent cannabis and nicotine use on brain networks. The study found that combined use had greater connectivity compared to isolated use of either substance. These findings suggest unique contributions of cannabis and nicotine on brain network connectivity.
A study by University of California - San Diego found that 63% of breast milk samples from mothers using marijuana contained THC, the primary psychoactive component. The study suggests that while the amount of THC in breast milk is relatively low, more research is needed to understand its potential effects on nursing babies.
A recent survey found that about 4.5% of US adults use e-cigarettes, with higher rates among young adults and those in the LGBTQ community. E-cigarette use also varies by state, with estimates ranging from 3.1% in South Dakota to 7% in Oklahoma.
Viral suppression rates have nearly tripled in the US over the past two decades due to improved treatment regimens. However, disparities persist among younger persons and blacks living with HIV, warranting further research. The study found that these populations were more likely to have detectable viral loads.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that pregnant women with nausea and vomiting in pregnancy were significantly more likely to have used marijuana during pregnancy. Women with severe nausea and vomiting had nearly four times greater odds of prenatal marijuana use than those without symptoms.
A study analyzing over 220,000 pregnancies found that women with mild or severe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy had a greater likelihood of using marijuana during the first trimester. The overall frequency of marijuana use among pregnant women was 5.3 percent.
Researchers discovered that cannabis's endocannabinoids help regulate gut inflammation by turning off an aggressive immune response. This mechanism provides a new drug target for treating patients with inflammatory bowel diseases.
A recent report by Drexel University shows that attitudes towards marijuana have become more positive among Pennsylvania youths, while their actual use has remained unchanged. This shift in attitude may lead to reduced stigma for individuals using medical marijuana.
A review suggests that cannabidiol, a compound in cannabis, may have modest efficacy in treating severe epilepsy, particularly in children. However, more rigorous clinical trials are necessary to fully understand its potential and minimize side effects.
Researchers will investigate long-term impacts of cannabis exposure on adolescent brains, seeking to understand changes in cognition and behavior that may last into adulthood. The study aims to inform evidence-based public policy decisions concerning medicinal and recreational uses of cannabis.
A randomized controlled trial found that inhaled vaporized cannabis did not improve or worsen exercise-related breathlessness in patients with advanced COPD. Despite some variability in response, the study's results suggest no clinically meaningful effect of cannabis on breathlessness during exercise.
A study by WSU researchers found that marijuana legalization in Colorado and Washington improved clearance rates for certain crimes, including burglaries and vehicle thefts. The analysis of monthly FBI data from 2010 through 2015 showed a significant improvement in property crime clearance rates in these states.
A nationally representative survey suggests that Americans' view of marijuana use is more favorable than existing evidence supports, with many ascribing health benefits to marijuana despite insufficient evidence. The survey found extensive gaps in understanding the health effects and safety of marijuana use.
New research reveals how cannabis triggers hunger hormones and changes brain activity to stimulate appetite. The study's findings could lead to targeted treatments for severe appetite loss in various chronic illnesses, improving quality of life and recovery.
A pioneering study found that Australian parents who turned to medicinal cannabis for children with epilepsy overwhelmingly considered the extracts effective. Contrary to parental expectations, most extracts contained low doses of cannabidiol (CBD), a key therapeutic element commonly used in clinical trials. The research revealed the l...
A majority of Australian GPs support medicinal cannabis use in palliative care and chronic conditions, highlighting the need for GP training. Despite their support, many feel uninformed and inadequately trained to handle patient enquiries about medicinal cannabis.
Women with a history of preeclampsia or gestational hypertension in pregnancy developed chronic hypertension at a 2- to 3-fold higher rate than those with normal blood pressure. They also had significantly higher rates of type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol, highlighting the need for lifelong cardiovascular screening.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a steady increase in more frequent cannabis use among adults after 2007, particularly in middle-age and older age groups. This trend contrasts with stable prevalence before 2007 and decreases among adolescents.
Young adults who use alcohol and/or marijuana are more likely to engage in condomless sex, with women being at greater risk on days with substance use. The study found that women's risk of condomless sex increased by a factor of 2.12 on alcohol use days, while men's risk was only slightly higher on dual use days.
A study published in the Journal of Drug Issues found that individuals with strong religious involvement are less likely to use marijuana recreationally and medically. The study, led by FSU Associate Professor Amy Burdette, examined data from the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
A recent study published in Biology of Sex Differences found no significant association between cannabis use and suicidal behavior in people with psychiatric disorders. However, the study did suggest that heavy cannabis use may increase risk of suicidal behavior in men.
A study found that persistent illicit drug use was associated with a higher risk of kidney disease progression and early death among chronic kidney disease patients. Tobacco smoking was also linked to an increased risk of early death.
A 25-year-old prison inmate was left with a permanent disability after using synthetic cannabis, despite having no traditional cardiovascular risk factors. The case highlights the potential dangers of synthetic cannabis use and the need for greater awareness among young users.
State agricultural organizations and researchers are working to improve cannabis cultivation through biological means of pest control and sequencing the cannabis genome. This effort aims to increase the crop's value by providing better growing conditions and fertilizers, ultimately reducing the demand for trained scientists.
A new study by Université de Montréal researchers found that boys who start smoking marijuana at the start of their teens are 68% more likely to have a drug abuse problem by age 28, compared to those who start between 15 and 17. The study also found that frequent cannabis use increases the risk of addiction.
A new study by RAND Corporation finds that adolescents who view more medical marijuana ads are more likely to use marijuana and have positive expectations about the substance. The study suggests that regulations on marijuana advertising may be necessary to prevent harm, particularly for young people.
New research reveals that young people in the US are increasingly choosing marijuana as their first drug, with a significant increase in use over the past decade. Young men from specific racial and ethnic groups are particularly affected.
Researchers at UBC's Okanagan campus have developed a new method to measure phytocannabinoids, leading to faster, safer and more accurate information for producers and regulators. The new method can test for over 100 phytocannabinoid variants in under 7 minutes.
A recent study found that cannabis use among parents with children at home nearly quadrupled between 2002 and 2015, increasing from 5% to 7%, while cigarette smoking declined. This increase may compromise progress in reducing secondhand smoke exposure, particularly among certain subpopulations.
Researchers found prenatal marijuana use can affect infant size, weight, and behavior problems, particularly when combined with tobacco use. Infants exposed to both substances showed smaller growth, earlier birth, and increased irritability in later infancy.
A survey of over 200 oncologists reveals that most have discussed medical marijuana use with patients, but many lack knowledge on its effectiveness. The study highlights the need for clinical trials and education to inform cancer care.
Researchers found that most oncologists discuss medical marijuana with patients and nearly half recommend it, but only 30% feel knowledgeable enough to make recommendations. The study suggests a discrepancy between attitudes and practices regarding medical marijuana's utility in oncology.
A multidisciplinary panel of experts discussed the role of medicinal cannabis in alleviating chronic pain and easing the opioid crisis. Despite strict federal laws, state laws allowing medicinal cannabis have impacted communities most affected by opioid use.
A new study found that children exposed to second-hand marijuana smoke have a higher rate of emergency department visits and otitis media episodes compared to those with no smoke exposure. The study also revealed an association between secondhand marijuana smoke exposure and increased child health issues.
A survey of 138 medical marijuana users aged 61-70 found that most patients significantly reduced their chronic pain and dependence on opioid painkillers. The results suggest that medical marijuana could be an effective solution to curb the opioid epidemic in older adults.
Researchers found that communities using a coordinated approach to prevention were more likely to reduce substance use, violence, and other antisocial behaviors in young adults. The study, conducted among 4,400 youth participants, showed significant long-term effects of Communities That Care (CTC) programs.
A new study funded by a $4.7 million gift from the Ray and Tye Noorda Foundation aims to investigate the therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol for children with severe symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. The study will involve clinical assessments and basic research to better understand how CBD interacts with neural activity.
Researchers developed an 'Am I Stoned' app that helps users understand their impairment through phone-based tasks. The app showed promise in detecting THC-induced impairments in a natural setting, paving the way for future use in assessing individual performance.
Researchers found that hemp extract slowed cell migration and reduced inflammation in ovarian cancer cells, suggesting a possible biological mechanism behind its anti-cancer effects. The study's results are comparable to or even better than current ovarian cancer drug Cisplatin, with potential for fewer side effects.
A new study found a significant association between prenatal cannabis use and low birth weights, with a 50 percent increase in risk. The study's lead author emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to screen for cannabis use during pregnancy and provide counseling on its adverse health consequences.
Medical marijuana shows promise in managing pain and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in older adults. However, its use requires a thorough assessment of side effects to ensure lower doses have a greater impact.
A study published in Journal of Affective Disorders found that cannabis can significantly reduce short-term levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Optimal strains and quantities include one puff high in CBD and low in THC for depression, two puffs of any type for anxiety, and 10 or more puffs high in CBD and high in THC for stress.
Researchers are investigating various cannabis-related health issues, such as its impact on pregnant women, young people, and those with chronic pain. The studies aim to expand knowledge on the most pressing questions related to the impact of cannabis on health.
Frequent cannabis use among young people is associated with decreased cognitive performance, which subsides with abstinence. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 69 studies found a significant link between heavy cannabis use and reduced cognitive function.
A new study in Journal of Addiction Medicine suggests that people who use medical marijuana are at higher risk for non-medical prescription drug use, including pain relievers. The study analyzed over 57,000 responses and found that medical marijuana users were about 60% more likely to report any prescription drug use.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises against using medical marijuana to treat sleep apnea due to unreliable delivery methods and insufficient evidence on its effectiveness and safety. Effective treatments like CPAP therapy are available from licensed medical providers.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that racial minority adolescents have a high prevalence of substance use and are at a higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The research team analyzed data from over 20 years of national surveys and found that Pacific Islander, multiracial, and Ame...
Most older adults (4/5) support allowing medical marijuana if recommended by a physician, while 2/3 advocate for more government-sponsored research on its health effects. The poll also reveals conflicting views on pain management, with prescription medications seen as more effective in controlling dosages.
Two studies investigate the correlation between state-legal cannabis use and opioid prescription rates among Medicaid enrollees and Medicare Part D recipients. The findings suggest that implementing medical cannabis laws may lead to a decrease in opioid prescribing rates and spending.
A new study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that cannabis use is associated with an increased initiation of cigarette smoking among non-cigarette smokers. Additionally, adults who smoke cigarettes and use cannabis are less likely to quit smoking than those who do not use cannabis.
A new study reveals that millions of Americans are searching for and purchasing illicit marijuana online, with the majority of search results linking to mail-order retailers. The study found that marijuana shopping searches nearly tripled in the US between 2005 and 2017, peaking at over 2 million searches per month.
A recent study found that riding with an impaired driver is prevalent among emerging adults, with 33% reporting the behavior at least once in the previous year. The study also showed that young adults are more likely to ride with a marijuana-impaired driver than an alcohol-impaired driver.
A study by Colorado State University researchers found that cannabis industry workers in Colorado are generally job-secure and valued safety, but lack formal training and face hazards such as ergonomic concerns and slips, trips, and falls. The industry needs to establish best practices and guidelines to improve worker health and safety.
A new special issue of the European Journal of Internal Medicine presents a comprehensive overview of current evidence for medical cannabis and derived products. The studies highlight its effectiveness in pain relief and potential benefits for elderly patients, calling for further research to improve the evidence base.
Cigars used for blunt-making dominate the marketplace in states where recreational marijuana is legal, with fruit-flavored and small pack sizes being particularly popular. This finding highlights the need for stricter regulations on tobacco products to reduce public health risks associated with their use.
A Northwestern University study found that coffee consumption decreased endocannabinoid system metabolites, which regulate stress response, cognition, and appetite. The study also suggests coffee may facilitate the excretion of steroids, potentially affecting diseases such as cancers.
A recent study by the Academy of Finland found that daily and heavy smoking are independently linked to a higher risk of psychoses. Smoking begun at an early age was a particularly significant risk factor, with prevention of adolescent smoking likely to have positive effects on mental health in later life.