Teen cannabis use linked to slower memory and thinking growth
Teens who start using cannabis may experience slower growth in memory, attention, language, and processing speed. Their abilities often developed normally at first, then began leveling off while nonusers continued improving. THC appeared to be the most likely driver, especially for worsening memory.
A study by researchers at the University of California San Diego has found that teenagers who start using cannabis may develop memory and thinking abilities more slowly than their non-using peers. The research, based on data from over 11,000 participants in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, monitored cognitive performance and substance use from ages 9 to 17.
While the cognitive differences were modest, the researchers suggest that these changes could still impact learning, memory, and everyday functioning. The study indicates that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary intoxicating compound in cannabis, may be the driving factor behind the slower cognitive growth, as opposed to cannabidiol (CBD).
However, the researchers caution that the findings do not definitively establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between cannabis use and slower cognitive development.
Brief written by urgent.news from ScienceDaily Health's own syndicated text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- Teen cannabis use linked to slower memory and thinking growth sciencedaily.com
