Study Reveals Impact of Cannabis Use on Brain Function

A new study published in JAMA Network Open delves into the effects of both recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks. This research, the largest of its kind, examined over 1,000 young adults aged 22 to 36 using brain imaging technology.

Cannabis and Working Memory

The study found that 63% of heavy lifetime cannabis users exhibited reduced brain activity during a working memory task, while 68% of recent users showed similar effects. Working memory is crucial for tasks such as following instructions or performing mental calculations.

As cannabis use continues to grow globally, studying its effects on human health has become increasingly important. 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.

Joshua Gowin, PhD, study’s first author, assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus

Defining Users

In the study, heavy users are defined as those who have used cannabis more than 1,000 times in their lifetime. Moderate users are those who have used between 10 and 999 times, while nonusers have used less than 10 times.

Research Methodology

The researchers studied the neural response of participants during an MRI session and had them complete seven cognitive tasks. These tasks assessed working memory, reward processing, emotion, language, motor skills, relational assessment, and theory of mind.

Statistical Significance

According to the study, cannabis had a statistically significant impact on brain function during working memory tasks. This decline in brain activity was observed in both recent and lifetime cannabis users. However, the effects were less pronounced in the other tasks.

“We applied the highest standards to our research, setting rigorous thresholds for statistical significance across all seven cognitive function tests. To minimize the risk of false positives, we employed false discovery rate (FDR) correction,” explains Gowin.

Impact on Brain Areas

The research found that cannabis use appeared to reduce brain activity in specific areas, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, and anterior insula. These regions are involved in decision-making, memory, attention, and emotional processing.

Abstinence and Cognitive Performance

Gowin suggests that abstaining from using cannabis before cognitive tasks could help improve performance. “People need to be aware of their relationship with cannabis since abstaining cold turkey could disrupt their cognition as well. For example, heavy users may need to be more cautious,” he says.

Future Research Directions

While this study provides valuable insights, Gowin acknowledges that more research is needed. “There are a lot of questions we still need answers to regarding how cannabis impacts the brain. Large, long-term studies are needed next to understand whether cannabis use directly changes brain function, how long these effects last, and the impact on different age groups.”

Conclusion

This groundbreaking study highlights the complex relationship between cannabis use and brain function. As the prevalence of cannabis use continues to rise, understanding its effects on cognitive tasks becomes increasingly important for public health.

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