SAM Friday Fact 09/06/2024: New Data Reveals Statistically Significant Increase in Daily Marijuana Use Since Colorado Legalized the Possession of Marijuana

The Monitoring the Future national survey results on substance use highlights the trend in the 30-day prevalence of daily marijuana use from 2013 to 2023: 

  • Aged 19-30: An increase of 76% 
  • Aged 35-50: An increase of 168% 

From 2013 to 2023, there was a statistically significant increase in daily marijuana use for both age groups. The percentage that used marijuana daily for those aged 19-30 increased from 5.9% in 2013 to 10.4% in 2023. Additionally, the percentage that used marijuana daily for those aged 35-50 increased from 2.8% in 2013 to 7.5% in 2023. 

This is concerning because it illustrates the rise in not just the use of marijuana but also the misuse of it. Defined as using it on at least 20 of the past 30 days, more Americans are using marijuana on a daily basis. Worse yet, many of these individuals may have cannabis use disorder, better known as addiction to marijuana. 

As of 2023, there are currently 19,164,000 Americans who had cannabis use disorder. Dr. Kevin Sabet has said, “Big Marijuana has set its sights on hooking a new generation of users by telling people their products are safe and even recreational.”