Considering Cannabis: The Effects of Regular Cannabis Use on Neurocognition in Adolescents and Young Adults

Abstract

Thirty-six percent of high-school seniors have used cannabis in the past year, and an alarming 6.5 % smoked cannabis daily, up from 2.4 % in 1993. Adolescents and emerging adults are undergoing significant neurodevelopment and animal studies suggest they may be particularly vulnerable to negative drug effects. In this review, we will provide a detailed overview of studies outlining the effects of regular (at least weekly) cannabis use on neurocognition, including studies outlining cognitive, structural, and functional findings. We will also explore the public health impact of this research.