The legalization fight has endured for decades, but there is a lot left to learn about weed. One of the most prevalent interests is the long-term impact of cannabis use. Data on this topic is lacking due to the usual complications with cannabis research. However, that is slowly changing as countries and states enact marijuana reform, widening access to science-backed research.
One recently published Danish study contributed solid data on the long-term impact of weed on cognitive function, and there might be room to celebrate.
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Long-term impact of cannabis use revealed
More than 5000 men took part in the study over 40 years. About 3000 abstain from weed, while 2000 of them consume some amount of the plant. Participants took multiple tests, like the Børge Prien’s Prøve military intelligence exam, to measure cognitive function around age 20 and again when they were about 60.
The second set of questionnaires included “extensive” lifestyle and health queries to gauge the full scope of their non-weed habits. All of this was plugged into linear regression models to assess the impact of cannabis on cognitive function. What they found will likely please long-time lovers of weed.
Participants who consumed cannabis maintained more of their faculties than those who did not, in some ways. The weed-friendly group also had a higher average IQ at age 20. That gap only widened 40 years later. Cannabis consumers reigned supreme at both ages.
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This good news is followed up by some negatives. Pot meant participants were more apt to have previously or currently smoked tobacco, partaken in more years of extreme binge drinking, and had experimented with other drugs.
As for cognitive function, the study supports past research indicating that cannabis consumers show no greater inclination toward mental decay than others. Authors assert one step further, indicating that those who smoked or ate pot showed slightly more intact intellect compared to non-consuming participants.
Many cannabis consumers from the D.A.R.E. days have been told their consumption is an unsafe problem. Studies like these are a salve for those years of stigmatization. Further research is required to make concrete statements on how weed impacts mental fortitude. This addition is a small win for stoners everywhere.
