Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that affects about 1% of the global population. It is characterized by hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking. While the exact cause of schizophrenia is still unknown, research suggests that genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors all play a role.
One environmental factor that has been linked to schizophrenia is marijuana use. A new study, which was published on May 4 in the journal Psychological Medicine, found that a shocking 30% of schizophrenia cases among men could be attributed to the use of high-potency marijuana.
The study analyzed data from over 10,000 people who had experienced a first episode of psychosis, which is a common symptom of schizophrenia. The researchers found that young men who used high-potency marijuana frequently were more likely to develop schizophrenia than those who did not use marijuana or used low-potency marijuana.
The French psychiatrist Jacques-Joseph Moreau published a book called Hashish and Mental Illness in 1845, the same year that Scientific American was founded. In his book, Moreau described the effects of hashish on himself and his patients. He noted that some of his patients experienced symptoms that were similar to those of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions.
More recent research has confirmed the link between marijuana use and schizophrenia. A major government-funded study conducted in the UK found that marijuana may be driving a surge in schizophrenia cases among young men. The study analyzed data from over 780,000 people and found that heavy use of the drug was described as "a major public health issue" despite an increasing number of countries embracing legalization.
Marijuana may increase the risk of schizophrenia, particularly in adolescents or young adults who use it frequently. Research indicates that people with a family history of psychotic disorders should exercise caution when it comes to cannabinoid use. In fact, a study led by researchers at the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that cannabis causes schizophrenia.
Cannabis-induced psychosis (CIP) is a type of psychosis that can occur as a result of marijuana use. The youngest patient with CIP whom Karen Randall, DO, has treated was a 7-year-old boy. Dr. Randall notes that CIP is becoming more common, and that parents should be aware of the risk associated with marijuana use in young children.
In conclusion, the link between schizophrenia and marijuana use is clear. Young men who use high-potency marijuana frequently have an increased risk of developing schizophrenia. People with a family history of psychotic disorders should exercise caution when it comes to cannabinoid use. While cannabis may be legal in some countries, it is important to remember that it can have serious consequences for mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with schizophrenia or another mental illness, seek help from a qualified professional.
