Updated
The consumption of cannabis among adolescents has shown a remarkable decline, decreasing by 40% over the past two decades. This significant finding is detailed in the ‘Cannabis 2025 Monograph: Consumption and Consequences’ released by the Ministry of Health , in association with the Government Delegation for the National Drug Plan , as reported by Servimedia .
The report, disseminated by the Ministerial Department , highlights the sustained decrease in cannabis consumption among adolescents. In 2004 , around 25% of high school students aged 14 to 18 reported having used cannabis within the last 30 days . Fast forward to 2023 , this percentage dropped to 15% , representing a 40% decrease in relative terms. This trend suggests a transformation in behavior and perceptions of risk among the youth, likely influenced by prevention campaigns , shifts in the social environment , and an increased awareness of the adverse effects of cannabis .
Moreover, various sociocultural factors, including the emergence of new psychoactive substances and a shift toward products perceived as less harmful, may be reshaping consumption trends within this demographic. This decline among adolescents stands in stark contrast to the stability of consumption in the adult population . Among adults aged 15 to 64 , 12% reported cannabis use in the last month, a figure that has remained relatively unchanged over recent years.
Daily Consumption Trends
When analyzing daily cannabis consumption , a slight increase has been noted in recent years. However, this prevalence remains low, at around 2.5% . In terms of healthcare implications, cannabis use poses a considerable burden on the health system, accounting for 46.2% of hospital emergency cases involving psychoactive substances in 2022 .
Cannabis was also responsible for 27.4% of admissions for treatment related to drug dependencies, making it the second mostcommon substance after cocaine . Notably, among individuals under the age of 18 , approximately 93.5% of those who begin using illegal drugs do so through cannabis consumption.
Increasing THC Concentration
The monograph additionally emphasizes the significant increase in the concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) , the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. In 2023 , the THC concentration reached 29% in resin samples (hashish) and 12.6% in cannabis flower, far exceeding levels recorded in previous decades. This heightened potency raises concerns regarding mental health risks , cardiovascular problems , and dependence among users.
The proliferation of new consumption methods, including edibles and e-liquids , coupled with the emergence of synthetic cannabinoids, complicates regulation and risk assessment. These synthetic variants are characterized by rapid development and chemical variability, posing unique challenges to both users and health officials.
The report concludes by highlighting the necessity for a comprehensive response combining epidemiological vigilance, evidence-based prevention strategies, and the reinforcement of public policies aimed at health and education. Such multifaceted efforts are crucial to ensure effective management of cannabis-related issues and to safeguard youth from potential health risks.
In light of these findings, it is imperative for healthcare professionals, educators, and policymakers to work collaboratively to enhance education about the risks associated with cannabis use while fostering an environment that prioritizes youth health. The declining rates of adolescent cannabis use present an opportunity for continued progress in public health efforts and youth legislation.
As we move into the future, the implications of these findings call for actionable strategies that involve communities in addressing substance use and maintaining the momentum of positive change among younger populations. By focusing on awareness and education, we can further decrease the potential risks associated with cannabis usage amid ever-evolving cultural landscapes.