Study shows cannabis use may protect against cognitive decline

A recent study conducted by researchers at the’Upstate Medical University finds a link between recreational cannabis use and a reduced risk of cognitive decline.

According to the study, compared with non-users, the non-medical use of cannabis is significantly associated with a 96 % reduction in the risk of subjective cognitive decline (SCD). People with SCD are at increased risk of dementia, a condition for which there are currently no definitive prevention strategies.

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The study, led by Zhi Chen, an MPH student, and Professor Roger Wong, examined three key aspects of cannabis use: the type (medical or non-medical), the frequency and the mode (smoking, vaping, eating, or dabber). These factors were carefully examined to understand their impact on the cognitive health of middle-aged and older adults.

Professor Wong emphasized the need to conduct longitudinal studies to fully understand the implications of the non-medical use of cannabis on cognition over time.

«The main conclusion is that cannabis may have a protective effect on our cognition,» said Professor Wong, «but it’s really crucial to conduct longitudinal studies, because this is just a snapshot from 2021.».

The study's findings call into question the Common Misconceptions About Cannabis Use and cognitive health, particularly with regard to frequency and the method of consumption. While previous studies of younger populations suggested negative links between cannabis and brain health, the study by the’Upstate Medical University suggests that these relationships involve age-related nuances.

Despite the protective association observed with the non-medical use of cannabis, the study highlighted certain limitations, such as the absence of state-specific cannabis regulations in the analysis. However, the use of a national dataset allows for greater generalizability of the results.

Professor Wong noted that the gap in protection between the’Medical and non-medical use of cannabis could be attributed to the varying cannabinoid composition in different types of cannabis. The medical marijuana generally contains more CBD and less THC than recreational varieties.

In addition, the study suggests that the observed protective effects against cognitive decline might stem from the properties of cannabis that improve sleep and reduce stress. Non-medical users often turn to cannabis to alleviate sleep problems and chronic stress, two factors linked to cognitive decline.

The Role of CBD in Cognitive Health

Contrary to expectations, the study found no substantial evidence to support the idea that CBD contributes significantly to cognitive health benefits. Professor Wong suggests that the protective effects may be more closely linked to other aspects of cannabis use.