Marijuana use has become increasingly common across the United States as more states legalize cannabis for medical or recreational purposes.
But while many people know that marijuana can be smoked, fewer realize how many different ways it is now being used.
A new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that Americans are using marijuana in several different forms, including smoking, eating edibles, vaping, and dabbing. The findings also reveal that younger adults are more likely to use stronger and more concentrated forms of cannabis.
The research was published on April 10 in the journal Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. The study was led by Dr. Zerleen S. Quader from the CDC in Atlanta.
Researchers analyzed data collected in 2022 through the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. This large health survey gathers information from adults across the United States about health habits and behaviors.
For this study, data came from 22 states and two U.S. territories where people answered questions about marijuana use and how they consumed cannabis products.
The results showed that 15.3% of adults reported currently using marijuana. Smoking remained the most common method by far. Nearly 80% of marijuana users said they smoked cannabis.
However, many people also used marijuana in other ways. About 41.6% said they consumed marijuana through edible products such as gummies, chocolates, cookies, or drinks. Around 30.3% reported vaping marijuana, while 14.6% used a method called dabbing.
Dabbing involves heating highly concentrated cannabis extracts or oils and inhaling the vapor. These products often contain extremely high levels of THC, the main psychoactive chemical in marijuana that causes the “high” feeling.
The study found clear age differences in marijuana use. Young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 were especially likely to vape or dab cannabis compared to older adults.
Researchers say this trend matters because vaping and dabbing may expose users to higher amounts of THC than traditional smoking. Very strong THC exposure may increase the risk of side effects such as anxiety, panic, paranoia, confusion, dizziness, poor coordination, and impaired judgment.
Experts are also concerned about vaping products because some may contain harmful additives or contaminants, especially products sold outside regulated markets. In recent years, health officials have investigated cases of serious lung injuries linked to contaminated vaping products.
Edibles also present special risks. Unlike smoking, where the effects appear quickly, edible cannabis products may take much longer to affect the body. Some people may accidentally take too much because they do not feel the effects right away. This can lead to unexpectedly strong intoxication, anxiety, or dangerous impairment.
Public health experts say the findings show why education about marijuana needs to change as cannabis products become more diverse and widely available.
In the past, health campaigns often focused mainly on smoking marijuana. But now, many users are consuming cannabis through oils, concentrates, vape pens, candies, drinks, and other products that may affect the body differently.
The researchers believe that public health messages should explain the specific risks linked to each method of marijuana use. Tailored education may help people make safer choices and better understand the possible health effects.
The report also highlights how quickly cannabis products and usage trends are evolving in the United States. As legalization spreads, scientists and health officials are working to better understand the long-term effects of regular marijuana use, especially among younger adults whose brains are still developing.
Some studies suggest heavy marijuana use may affect memory, attention, learning, and mental health, although researchers are still studying these effects in detail. High-THC products may carry greater risks than older cannabis products used in previous decades because today’s products are often much stronger.
Researchers say understanding how people use marijuana is important for doctors, policymakers, and public health workers. Better information may help create safer regulations, improve public education, and reduce potential harms linked to cannabis use.
The report also reminds people that smoking of any kind may carry health risks. Previous studies have linked smoking to increased risks of heart disease, lung damage, and other serious health problems.
Researchers are also studying the possible health effects of e-cigarette vapor and cannabis smoke on the lungs and other organs.
The findings were published in the journal Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.
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