The Wall Street Journal Explores Adolescent Cannabis Use and Psychosis
(01/11/2024) The debate surrounding Cannabis and its potential link to psychosis is reinvigorated by a recent article in The Wall Street Journal. This topic is multifaceted and complex, and the central question is whether Cannabis use leads to psychosis, or if it’s the other way around. It's a common belief that there's an association between marijuana/hemp and psychosis. However, the causal nature of this relationship remains a subject of debate. Some argue that the rising global rates of Cannabis use should correlate with similar increased rates of psychosis, this perspective may oversimplify a complex issue.
A DNA helix with Cannabis products and emojis
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) offer a unique lens into this debate. If Cannabis directly caused schizophrenia, we would expect to find specific genetic markers tied to both. However, the reality is more nuanced. A 2022 study by Ganesh et al., elucidates that while Cannabis use may increase psychosis risk, it is neither a necessary nor a sufficient cause. This suggests the presence of multiple causal components, challenging the idea of a straightforward cause-and-effect relationship. As Genesh et al., stated,
"While cannabis use may increase the risk for psychosis , its exposure is neither necessary nor sufficient for psychosis, suggesting that is one of multiple causal components. Furthermore, the criterion of temporality fails to account for possible underlying reverse-causal or confounding effects of genetic risk that predates cannabis exposure"
The data limitations in this area are significant. Most studies focus on ‘lifetime cannabis use’ without delving into the specifics – the source or type of the Cannabis-product used. This general approach falls short in providing the nuanced data needed for informed policy-making. We need to understand which specific products and factors are linked to these risks. One part of the solution may be improving access to and engagement with platforms for individuals to report undesirable effects or adverse effects of THC-containing products.
A critical question remains unaddressed: where do most adolescents obtain their THC products? The answer points towards an unregulated market, far from the oversight required to operate a licensed dispensary. This raises concerns about the quality, purity, and safety of products obtained outside of a regulated market.
Heather Bacchus, a parent interviewed by the Wall Street Journal, poignantly captures the essence of this issue: "I didn’t know that marijuana could cause paranoia. They don’t even know what they’re smoking." Her words underscore the gap in public awareness and the pressing need for more informed discussions on Cannabis use and its implications.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical diagnosis or treatment recommendations.
