The Adverse Health Effects of Persistent Cannabis Use: Review & Recommendations for Change

Benjamin J. Tuyp

ABSTRACT

Cannabis is the world’s most widely used illicit drug. As consumption rates increase, societies are beginning to reconsider its legal status. In order to advise patients and policymakers, clinicians must remain informed of the adverse health effects of marijuana. Established risks include respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment, psychotic illness, and motor vehicle collisions. These damages are magnified in heavy users and in those initiating consumption at an early age. This paper focuses on the well-demonstrated harms of persistent marijuana use, providing clinicians with a foundation of knowledge and a series of lower-risk usage guidelines to augment discussions on drug policy and patient risk.

Full text (PDF, 4639KB)

Tuyp BJ. The Adverse Health Effects of Persistent Cannabis Use: Review & Recommendations for Change. UBCMJ 2013 5(1):24-29.