Trends in Marijuana Use: New CDC Report Highlights Risks and Patterns

[Paracelsus]

As marijuana becomes increasingly legalized and accepted across the United States, understanding how Americans use cannabis products is crucial. A recent report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sheds new light on current marijuana use patterns among U.S. adults, highlighting significant public health implications.

In 2022, approximately 15.3% of American adults reported using marijuana within the past month, with smoking continuing to be the most common method (79.4%). However, other routes of use such as edibles (41.6%), vaping (30.3%), and dabbing (14.6%) are also notably prevalent. The study, which used data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), analyzed responses from adults across 22 states and two territories.

The report identified concerning trends, particularly among younger adults. Marijuana vaping and dabbing (inhaling highly concentrated cannabis oils) were most popular among those aged 18–24. Specifically, vaping was reported by 44.7% of respondents in this age group, and dabbing was reported by 28.4%. Experts worry about the heightened risk of adverse health effects associated with these consumption methods, such as lung injuries from vaping contaminants and acute psychosis due to the high THC concentrations involved in dabbing.

The study also revealed demographic variations in marijuana use. Multiracial adults reported the highest prevalence of marijuana use at 24.7%, followed closely by American Indian or Alaska Native adults at 20.7%. Additionally, there was a notable gender difference, with men reporting higher use rates (18%) compared to women (12.8%). Educational attainment also showed significant differences; those with lower educational levels (high school diploma or less) were more likely to use marijuana daily compared to those with higher educational attainment.

Also, nearly half (46.7%) of the current cannabis users reported using multiple methods simultaneously, often combining smoking with edibles (55.2%) or vaping (54.5%). This multidimensional use complicates the understanding and management of potential health risks.

CDC researchers emphasized the need for targeted educational campaigns focusing on the distinct risks associated with each method of cannabis consumption. The report particularly highlights the increased risk of accidental pediatric ingestion associated with the wider availability of edibles. As cannabis products evolve, ongoing surveillance and public education are critical to mitigating health impacts, informing policy decisions, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Read the full CDC report here: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/74/wr/mm7412a1.htm

Other trends related topics:

• Decades of Data Show Startling Trends in Meth and Opioid Deaths in the US
• Substance Use Trends in U.S. Adults: Cannabis Record-High, Psychedelics Rise, Smoking Declines

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[mycelium]

I consume a large amount of dabs...and have recently been diagnosed with cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, or, punk all day non-stop for the whole day and 5-6-7 showers, or baths, with more hot water on the stove to bring it in for super hot water, and pouring it on my stomach or hot water from stove and hot shower on stomach while laying on bed....(Not boiling water on stomach, but the super hot water in tilun when hot water is added).
It lasts all day, and normally comes around every 5-6 months but it's happened a lot in the past 2 months

 

[Paracelsus]

Thanks for sharing!

Chronic overstimulation of cannabinoid receptors, especially CB1 receptors in your gut and brain, starts to backfire. Instead of calming nausea and stress (which cannabis normally does at lower doses), it causes uncontrollable vomiting and nausea. Hot water temporarily soothes the misfiring signals between the gut and brain — the heat might "distract" or override some of the dysfunctional sensory signals coming from the overstimulated endocannabinoid system. A lot of Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) sufferers feel massive relief in very hot water.

Why It’s Happening More Often

• The more frequent the dabbing, the more sensitive your body becomes to the THC overload.
• Your body might not have had enough time to fully detox between episodes. Each CHS event leaves your system more vulnerable to the next one.
• Concentrates are a major factor. Dabs can contain up to 80%+ THC, way more than typical cannabis (which is usually 15–25%).

What Helps

• Stopping THC completely is currently the only truly effective "cure" for CHS. Some people relapse by thinking, "Oh, it’s been months, I can use again," and boom — the symptoms come roaring back, often worse.
• Capsaicin cream (chili pepper cream) rubbed on your belly can sometimes mimic the heat relief you get from showers, without burning yourself out with scalding water all day.
• Hydration with electrolytes (not just water) is critical during episodes.

Many people struggling with CHS don't fit the "stereotype" of a "problem user." Most are trying to medicate anxiety, pain, trauma, or sleep issues — dabs worked at first, right? But your body’s chemistry can turn on you after enough exposure. You’re not weak for being in this position — this syndrome is cruel. But your body is giving you a huge warning sign that it’s overwhelmed.

 

[mycelium]

Thank you.
The dabs, to me, are free because I was an extractor. I poured off the terpenes so what I smoke is mostly 92-95% THCA and almost zero terps and fats. And I dab first about 5am and last about 9pm with a lot in between, especially since I haven't been working the past year, but surgery is done and I feel ready to start work again, which will help me not smoke so much..like, already be stoned and still do a dab, just for something to do(not working for a year made me go crazier)
Thanks for the capsaicin cream idea, I'll go grab some today, for when it happens again!