Largest study on cannabis and memory reveals disappointing results
Scientists have discovered the truth about the effects of cannabis on the human brain (photo: Getty Images)
Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis conducted a large-scale study on the effects of cannabis on human memory. Over the course of more than five years, the scientists examined how cannabis consumption affects young people aged 22 to 36, and the results were discouraging.
What the largest study in history on cannabis' impact revealed is discussed by the JAMA Network Open journal.
According to the scientists, the study showed that prolonged cannabis use may have a harmful impact on a cognitive aspect called working memory.
Participants in the study displayed decreased activity in key areas of the brain while performing a series of cognitive tasks, leading to lower test results.
All volunteers not only underwent special tests over five years but also had brain scans using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and urine analysis.
Participants who reported using marijuana more than 1,000 times during their lifetime were classified as heavy users, while those who used it less frequently were categorized as moderate users.
The tasks given to volunteers aimed to assess seven key aspects of cognition: emotion, reward, language, motor skills, relationship assessment, theory of mind, and working memory. Working memory is responsible for retaining information in the mind while working on tasks.
In 63% of heavy users and 68% of moderate users, a decrease in brain activation was observed during working memory tasks.
The areas of the brain most affected were the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, and the anterior insula. These areas play a crucial role in essential cognitive functions, including memory, decision-making, and attention.
The study authors also noted that all these areas of the brain have high concentrations of cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1), the primary target for THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis.
They also believe that abstaining from cannabis for an extended period may help reverse the deficits caused by frequent use.
"The exact duration of this period of abstinence is unclear, but studies suggest that residual cognitive effects of cannabis may remain for 2 to 4 weeks after abstinence. Further studies are required to determine guidance on the length of abstinence that may be necessary to improve cognitive performance," the scientists wrote.
Study author Joshua Gowan added that those who plan to quit cannabis may also experience a period of cognitive decline before improvements occur.
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