Teen Cannabis Use Skyrockets Post-Legalization 

United States: A study in JAMA Network Open discovered that teen cannabis consumption increased by 26% in Canadian territories after edible and extracted marijuana products received legalization in October 2019. Edible cannabis product use among Canadian teens increased by 43% throughout the study duration. 

Edibles’ Sweet Appeal Draws Youth In 

Highly attractive edible cannabis products including chocolates and candies and sodas continue to pose significant health problems according to health regulators together with policymakers. These products create a risk of mixing recreational drugs with normal adolescent foods according to HealthDay expert opinions. 

Over 100,000 Teens Surveyed 

This research collects data from 106,000 Canadian teens who fall between the ages of 12 and 17. The uptick in youth cannabis use after legalization did not occur in Quebec because edibles remained illegal within the province thereby establishing a direct relationship between legal cannabis and increased use. 

"Teen use of cannabis edibles increases 43% after legalization in Canada, study finds"

Blares the CNN headline. But what does the study actually say? And what are the flaws in this study?

The study uses a serial cross-sectional design, which captures data at specific points in… pic.twitter.com/iJ0RqExkJQ

— Marc Landers (@marclanders) April 23, 2025

Shifting Attitudes, Lower Risk Perception 

Students modified their perception of occasional marijuana use to become less risky after legalization took effect. Professional opinions suggest that students’ current relaxed approach to occasional marijuana use creates potential long-term health risks mainly for young consumers. 

Teen Use Tied to Mental Health Decline 

Scientific research continues to show that marijuana use during adolescence is linked to increased risks of anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. According to the CDC, cannabis can disrupt critical brain regions responsible for decision-making and learning—functions still developing in teens. 

Dual Use of Cannabis and Alcohol Rises 

The study also discovered a 28% increase in the simultaneous use of cannabis and alcohol among teens, a behavior pattern that could lead to more severe substance use issues and health risks over time, as reported by HealthDay. 

Experts Call for Prevention and Awareness 

Dr. Hai Van Nguyen at Memorial University emphasizes that the prevention of teenage drug misuse demands awareness campaigns directed by local communities. Dr. Joshua Gowin from the University of Colorado stated that the purpose is to provide factual science-based information for communities and families to make knowledgeable decisions.