Recent data from the US National Survey on Drug Use and Health has revealed a significant shift in substance use habits in the United States. According to Jonathan Caulkins, a public health policy researcher, high-frequency cannabis use is now more common than high-frequency alcohol consumption. This marks a milestone moment in the country’s long history of drug and alcohol consumption.
Caulkins analyzed data from 27 surveys conducted annually since 1990, comparing the use of alcohol and recreational drugs like cannabis among teens and adults. The findings show a steady increase in daily or near-daily cannabis use since 1992, while high-frequency alcohol consumption has decreased. In 2022, the number of daily or near-daily cannabis users surpassed those who drink alcohol at the same frequency.
The US National Survey on Drug Use and Health has evolved over the years, transitioning from pencil-and-paper interviews to computer-based and online surveys. The survey has expanded to include different populations such as students living on college campuses, military personnel, and homeless individuals. These changes have provided more comprehensive data on substance use habits in the US.
The shift in substance use trends coincides with policy changes in the US, particularly regarding cannabis. The expansion of medical cannabis since 1993 and the relaxation of cannabis regulations have contributed to the increased use of the drug. However, cultural shifts and changing attitudes towards cannabis and alcohol also play a role in influencing substance use habits among Americans.
The findings from the US National Survey on Drug Use and Health suggest that cannabis use is now on a different scale than before. With the recent announcement by the US Drug Enforcement Agency to ease federal restrictions on cannabis, reclassifying it in a similar category to painkillers, the landscape of substance use in the United States is likely to continue evolving. It is crucial for policymakers and public health officials to monitor these trends and adapt preventive measures accordingly.
Overall, the changing landscape of substance use in the United States underscores the need for ongoing research and intervention strategies to address the evolving patterns of drug and alcohol consumption in the country. By understanding the factors driving these shifts and implementing targeted interventions, it is possible to promote healthier behaviors and reduce the negative consequences associated with substance abuse.