Addiction Policy Forum Launches Cannabis Use Disorder Prevention and Awareness Week

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The Addiction Policy Forum launched the inaugural Cannabis Use Disorder Prevention and Awareness Week, April 15-22. The national educational initiative aims to increase public understanding of cannabis use disorder, symptoms of cannabis use disorder, highlight emerging health risks, and promote prevention efforts.

As cannabis use continues to rise across the United States, public perception of its risks remains low. However, research shows that an estimated 20.6 million people meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder, making it the second most common substance use disorder after alcohol.

“Cannabis Use Disorder Prevention and Awareness Week is an opportunity to ensure individuals, families, and communities have access to accurate, science-based information about cannabis, risk factors, prevention resources and how to get help for those struggling with cannabis use disorder,” shared Jessica Hulsey, Executive Director and Founder of Addiction Policy Forum. “As cannabis use continues to rise, it’s critical to elevate the science and bring awareness to its potential health impacts so individuals can make more informed decisions and support healthier communities nationwide.”

Cannabis can be consumed in multiple forms—including smoking, vaping, edibles, and high-potency concentrates—which can influence both the intensity of its effects and associated health risks. While often perceived as low risk, research shows that approximately 3 in 10 people who use cannabis will develop cannabis use disorder, with significantly higher risk among those who begin use during adolescence.

Research highlights a range of potential health impacts associated with frequent or heavy cannabis use, including:

Physical health effects, such as respiratory issues, cardiovascular complications (including increased risk of heart attack and stroke), and gastrointestinal conditions like cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome.
Mental health impacts, including increased risk of anxiety, depression, psychosis, and cognitive impairment.
Developmental concerns, particularly among adolescents, include effects on brain development and decision-making.
Elevated suicide risk, with studies linking cannabis use to increased suicidal thoughts and behaviors among youth and young adults.
Cancer risk, with emerging evidence suggesting smoking cannabis may increase the likelihood of cancers of the head, neck, and throat.

Cannabis use also has broader societal impacts, including impaired driving, reduced academic and workplace performance, and increased healthcare utilization.

Despite the growing number of individuals affected, treatment rates for cannabis use disorder remain low. While there are currently no FDA-approved medications to treat cannabis use disorder, behavioral therapies—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational enhancement therapy (MET), and contingency management—have been shown to be effective in reducing use and improving health outcomes.

As part of Cannabis Use Disorder Prevention and Awareness Week, the Addiction Policy Forum has developed a series of science-backed educational resources to inform the public on the risks, health impacts, and the latest research on effective response strategies. These include:

Through these efforts, the Addiction Policy Forum aims to equip individuals, families, and professionals with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions and reduce related harms. For more information and to access resources, visit www.addictionpolicy.org.