A vast study carried out on 1,000 young adults shows that intensive cannabis consumption can have lasting effects on cognitive functions, in particular memory, attention or decision -making.
- By analyzing the brain scans of some 1,000 young adults, the researchers observed a reduced activity in the areas of the brain linked to attention and working memory in large consumers.
- These functions are essential to retain short -term information and make decisions. The study also notes gender differences, men being more affected.
- On the other hand, the high consumption of cannabis does not seem to significantly affect other cognitive functions, such as the recognition of emotions, the use of language or logical planning.
Contrary to what one might think, the effects of cannabis on the brain do not disappear immediately after stopping its consumption. A new study, published in Jama Network Openreveals that the intensive use of marijuana can have lasting consequences on memory and cognitive functions. It is one of the largest research never carried out on the subject.
Targeted effects on memory, attention, decision -making …
In a context of increasing legalization and increase in the power of cannabis products in their countries, American and Canadian researchers have collaborated to analyze the effects of cannabis on cognitive health. They examined brain scans of some 1,000 adults aged 22 to 36, divided into three groups: large consumers (more than 1,000 times during their lifetime), moderate consumers (10 to 999 times) and non-consumers (less 10 times).
As a result, in intensive users (9 % of participants), scientists detected a reduced brain activity during memory -related tasks, compared to those who consumed no or little cannabis. The most affected areas were those responsible for attention, decision -making and temporary information storage – essential functions for daily life. “Intensive consumption can have lasting impacts on cognitive treatment, even after someone has stopped consuming the substance”summarizes a press release.
Cannabis affects working memory
There “Working memory, often compared to a ‘mental post-it” – In other words, short -term memory – is particularly affected by the use of cannabis. “We use this type of memory every day, constantly, whether to follow a conversation, solve problems or remember instructions”as a phone number. The effects of drugs could therefore explain certain difficulties encountered by large consumers in their daily lives.
Beyond memory tasks, scientists also examined how the brain of volunteers reacted before other mental exercises, such as recognition of emotions, the use of language, logical planning or understanding of the perspectives of others. But, interesting, the high consumption of cannabis did not seem to affect “Significantly” These other brain functions.
