Post: Heavy cannabis use could pose this threat to the brain

As cannabis is legalized in more states across the country, new research points to the negative side effects of partaking too much.

Researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus looked into the impact of recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks.

The study, published in the journal JAMA Open Network, is the "largest of its kind," according to the university, using brain imaging technology to examine the effects of cannabis use on 1,000 young adults from 22 to 36 years old.

DAILY MARIJUANA SMOKERS FACE HIGHER RISK OF HEART ATTACK, STROKE, SAYS AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION STUDY

The cannabis users were tested on their "working memory," which is the ability to retain and use information to perform tasks, like solving a math problem. The researchers looked into the impact of recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks. (LEONARDO MUNOZ/AFP via Getty Images)

Neural response was measured through seven cognitive tests – probing working memory, reward, emotion, language and motor skills – such as "tapping a finger to map brain control, relational assessment and theory of mind."

The results showed that 63% of heavy lifetime cannabis users demonstrated reduced brain activity while completing a working memory task.

Meanwhile, 68% of recent cannabis users exhibited a similar impact.

OLDER AMERICANS TURN TO MARIJUANA FOR BETTER SLEEP AND PAIN RELIEF: HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW The researchers concluded that cannabis had a "statistically significant effect" on brain function during working memory tasks, but was less significant in other tasks.There was reduced brain activity in areas involved in important cognitive functions like decision-making, memory, attention and emotional processing. "Heavy users" in the study included those who used cannabis more than 1,000 times over their lifetime. (iStock) Lead study author Joshua Gowin, PhD, assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, stressed the importance of studying the effects of cannabis on health as it continues to "grow globally.""By doing so, we can provide a well-rounded understanding of both the benefits and risks of cannabis use, empowering people to make informed decisions and fully comprehend the potential consequences," […]

Heavy cannabis use could pose this threat to the brain