Study Shows Decrease in Adolescent Cannabis Consumption from 1999 to 2023

A recent study from the University of Connecticut, published in Addictive Behavior, reveals a significant decrease in cannabis consumption among teens from 1999 till 2023. Analysis of the data from the CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey, which surveyed over 254,000 high schoolers from 1991 to 2023, shows a drop from a peak of 47.3% in 1999 to 30.1% in 2023.

Interestingly, while males have generally reported higher rates of use, in 2003 females reported higher cannabis consumption statistics; 33.4% compared to 27% for males. A further study in 2024, from the University of Michigan, supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, also showed a decrease in cannabis consumption among 12th graders, though usage in younger grades appeared to remain stable. 

These findings underline the importance of continuing to monitor trends, understanding the implications for regulation and ensuring our industry continues to prioritize responsible and safe use.