A groundbreaking study recently published in the journal Current Alzheimer Research has shed light on the potential cognitive benefits of marijuana use. The study, conducted by researchers at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, found that individuals who consume cannabis for recreational or medical purposes have lower odds of experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD) compared to non-users.
The research team noted that past studies have demonstrated a negative correlation between heavy cannabis use and mental performance, including compromised verbal recall performance and worsened cognitive function. However, the new study sought to explore the nuanced relationship between cannabis use and cognitive decline, taking into account factors such as frequency of use, reason for use, and method of consumption.
The findings revealed that recreational cannabis users experienced a “significantly” lower incidence of SCD compared to non-users. In fact, non-medical cannabis use was associated with a remarkable 96% decreased odds of SCD. While the results for individuals who used cannabis for medical purposes were not statistically significant, there was still a trend towards reduced odds of cognitive decline.
To better understand the impact of cannabis on cognitive function, the researchers analyzed data from the 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), focusing on respondents aged 45 years and older from Washington DC and 14 U.S. states. The survey included questions about confusion or memory loss experienced over the past year, as well as information on cannabis usage frequency, reason for use, and method of consumption.
One theory proposed by the researchers to explain the association between cannabis use and reduced SCD is the potential benefits of marijuana in improving sleep quality. Previous studies have shown that cannabis can enhance sleep quality, expedite sleep onset, and reduce sleep disturbances, all of which are factors that could contribute to lower cognitive decline.
Moreover, many individuals turn to cannabis as a means of alleviating stress. Elevated stress levels have been linked to reduced cognitive function among older adults, while CBD—an active compound in marijuana—has been shown to effectively reduce stress. This stress-relieving property of cannabis may further contribute to its positive impact on cognitive health.
Interestingly, the study also highlighted a mice study from 2017 that indicated very low doses of THC—the psychoactive component in marijuana—could improve cognitive impairment in older females. This finding suggests that THC may have neuroprotective effects that warrant further investigation.
Despite some mixed results in the study—such as a higher prevalence of SCD among cannabis smokers—the overall trend pointed towards a potential protective effect of cannabis against subjective cognitive decline. While increased frequency and varied methods of cannabis use showed positive associations with SCD, these relationships were not statistically significant.
In conclusion, the study underscores the need for further research into the complex relationship between cannabis use and cognitive function. By considering multiple factors such as reason for use and method of consumption, future studies can provide deeper insights into the mechanisms underlying these associations. As more jurisdictions move towards legalization of marijuana, it is crucial to conduct robust scientific investigations to inform public health policies and promote safe and responsible cannabis use.
