New Study Links Rising Cannabis Potency to Higher Rates of Use Disorder

A JAMA Psychiatry article based on National Survey on Drug Use and Health data shows that cannabis use disorder symptoms have climbed among U.S. adults, with 9.3% of men and 5.6% of women reporting at least two criteria in 2024, up from 2021. Moderate-to-severe cases rose to 4.1% for men and 2.5% for women, notably among men over 35 and women over 21, while the highest prevalence remains in the 18-20 age group. Overall past-year marijuana use rose to 21.2% in 2025, driven by the proliferation of high-THC flower, edibles, gummies and vapes.

The study cannot link the increase directly to THC levels, prompting experts like Jonathan Caulkins to warn that unrestricted markets could harm millions, while Jeffrey Singer urges education over moral panic. Massachusetts voters will decide on repealing legalization, a campaign funded by Smart Approaches to Marijuana, highlighting the policy debate sparked by the findings.