U.S. Studies Flag Rising Cannabis Addiction Risks

Recent research points to several distinct health concerns associated with cannabis use, particularly frequent or varied consumption. A study of more than 17,000 U.S. users found that people who used multiple methods, such as smoking, vaping, edibles and concentrates, were more likely to consume cannabis daily and show signs of cannabis use disorder than people who primarily used one method. Separate national data indicate that moderate-to-severe cannabis use disorder has increased across age groups, including adults 50 and older, even where overall use remained relatively stable. CDC data found cannabis was detected in 21% of overdose deaths from 2021 through mid-2025, but it was listed as causing death in only 0.8% of cases and was the sole substance involved in just nine deaths, with most cases involving fentanyl or stimulants. Other research found frequent users had higher morning cortisol levels, suggesting possible disruption of stress-response systems, though the study did not establish causation.