Marijuana Legalization has not Increased Teen Drug Use

Among the many concerns for those opposed to marijuana legalization, a recent study finds that drug use has not increased among young people in states that have decriminalized the drug for medicinal purposes.

"Our study suggests that-at least thus far-the legalization of marijuana for medical purposes has not increased adolescent marijuana use, a finding supported by a growing body of literature," said lead study author of Brown University's Alpert Medical School, Esther K. Choo, via The Washington Post.

As 21 states and the District of Columbia now permit the use of medical marijuana for medicinal purposes, researchers looked at drug use in states where marijuana use is now legal, both before and after such laws were passed. They then compared the numbers to nearby states where medical marijuana use remained illegal.

The study used data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) anonymous Youth Risk Behavioral Surveillance System survey to look at local and state schools of children in the ninth through twelve grades, which is given every year.

Findings showed that though teen pot use is still quite common, the rates did not increase in any states in which the drug had been legalized.

As some studies have linked extended use of marijuana to permanent effects on cognitive development, as well as social problems and academic functioning, researchers conclude that advocating against this and other drug is still an important step to stop teen drug use.

What do you think?

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the article "The Impact of State Medical Marijuana Legislation on Adolescent Marijuana Use," which can be found in the Journal of Adolescent Health.