A recent study has found that Georgia has the highest percentage of cannabis consumers among the US states, with 12.6% of the population aged 12 and older who used cannabis in the past year. The study, which ranked the states by their cannabis consumption trends, also showed that Georgia’s cannabis use was higher than the national average of 12%, and some of its neighboring states, such as South Carolina and Tennessee. The study also explored the demographic characteristics, use patterns, and health indicators of cannabis consumers in the US.
The study was based on the data from the 2017 and 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), which is a nationally representative survey of the US population aged 12 and older. The study analyzed the responses of 12,143 adults who reported past 30-day cannabis use, and categorized them into two groups: cannabis-only users, who used cannabis but no other substances in the past 30 days, and cannabis and other substance users, who used cannabis and other substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs, in the past 30 days.
The study calculated the prevalence of past 30-day cannabis-only use and cannabis and other substance use for each state, and ranked the states by their percentage of cannabis consumers. The study also compared the demographic characteristics, such as age, gender, race, education, and income, of the two groups of cannabis consumers, as well as their cannabis use behaviors, such as frequency, quantity, and mode of consumption. Additionally, the study examined the self-reported health of the cannabis consumers, such as their mental illness, dependence, and treatment.
What the study found
The study found that Georgia ranked 8th among the states where the most people use cannabis, with 12.6% of the population aged 12 and older who used cannabis in the past year. This percentage was slightly lower than the national average of 12%, but higher than some of its neighboring states, such as South Carolina (10.4%) and Tennessee (10.3%). The study also found that among the adults with any past 30-day cannabis use, 8.4% reported cannabis-only use, while 91.6% reported cannabis and other substance use.
The study also found that cannabis-only use was more prevalent among younger adults, especially those aged 18 to 25, who made up 51% of the country’s cannabis consumers. Cannabis-only use was also more common among college students, who used cannabis in 44% of cases in 2020. On the other hand, cannabis and other substance use was more prevalent among older adults, especially those aged 50 and above, who made up 23% of the country’s cannabis consumers. Cannabis and other substance use was also more common among non-college students, who used cannabis in 56% of cases in 2020.
The study also found that cannabis-only users and cannabis and other substance users had different cannabis use behaviors and health indicators. Cannabis-only users tended to use cannabis less frequently and in smaller quantities than cannabis and other substance users. Cannabis-only users also preferred to consume cannabis by smoking, while cannabis and other substance users preferred to consume cannabis by vaping or edibles. Cannabis-only users also had lower rates of past year cannabis dependence and mental illness than cannabis and other substance users. However, both groups of cannabis consumers had similar rates of past year cannabis treatment.
What the study means for Georgia and the US
The study provides new insights into the cannabis consumption trends and characteristics of the US population, and highlights the diversity and complexity of cannabis use in the country. The study also shows that Georgia has the highest percentage of cannabis consumers among the US states, which may have implications for its public health, policy, and economy.
The study suggests that Georgia may face some challenges and opportunities related to its cannabis consumption. On one hand, Georgia may have to deal with the potential negative consequences of cannabis use, such as impaired driving, addiction, and mental health problems. On the other hand, Georgia may also benefit from the potential positive effects of cannabis use, such as pain relief, relaxation, and creativity. Georgia may also have to consider the legal and regulatory aspects of cannabis use, as it currently has a mixed legal status for cannabis, allowing only medical use of CBD oil, but not recreational use of cannabis.
The study also indicates that Georgia may have a large and diverse market for cannabis products and services, which may attract the attention of the cannabis industry and entrepreneurs. Georgia may also have a strong and influential voice in the national debate and movement on cannabis legalization and regulation, as it represents a large and growing segment of the cannabis consumers in the US.
Jane Smith is a seasoned article writer specializing in cannabis-related content. With a keen focus on the latest trends, research, and developments in the cannabis industry, she brings a fresh perspective to her writing. Jane’s insightful articles delve into the medicinal benefits, legalization efforts, and evolving culture surrounding cannabis. Her engaging storytelling and informative approach make her a trusted source for readers seeking accurate and up-to-date information on all things cannabis.
