Title: The Impact of Early Cannabis Use on Adolescent Brain Development The recent study published in JAMA Network Open has shed light on the potential long-term effects of cannabis use among teenagers who start using before age 15. According to researchers, these individuals are more likely to develop mental and physical health problems later in life compared to their peers who did not use marijuana during adolescence. The study used data from the Québec Longitudinal Study of Child Development, which has been following over 1,500 children since birth into young adulthood. Among these participants, approximately 60% did not use cannabis in their teenage years while the remaining 40% either started using it later or infrequently during that period. However, a significant portion of this group (20%) began consuming marijuana before turning 15 and by age 17 were using it at least once a month. These early and frequent users faced higher risks for seeking healthcare in young adulthood due to both mental and physical health issues compared to those who did not use cannabis during their teenage years. This finding supports previous research suggesting that adolescent brain development can be disrupted by regular marijuana usage, potentially leading to long-term cognitive impairments. The implications of this study are significant as it highlights the importance of delaying exposure to substances like cannabis until adulthood when the brain has fully developed. Parents and educators should continue promoting awareness about the potential risks associated with early substance use, especially given the increasing legalization of marijuana in many countries. In conclusion, this study underscores the need for comprehensive education programs on drug abuse prevention targeting adolescents and their families. By providing accurate information about the dangers of early cannabis consumption, we can help protect young people from making decisions that could negatively impact their future health and well-being.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2025/10/29/nx-s1-5589224/teens-weed-cannabis-marijuana)
#teens
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