Associations of cannabis use, tobacco use and co‐use with brain volume: A systematic review and meta‐analysis | Synapse
March 21, 2026Open Access
Associations of cannabis use, tobacco use and co‐use with brain volume: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Key Points
The research aims to examine the relationship between cannabis and tobacco use and brain volume specifically focusing on key brain regions.
Conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of existing literature.
Analyzed studies measuring brain volume in relation to cannabis and tobacco usage.
Identified specific brain regions impacted by substance use.
Cannabis use is linked to a smaller volume in the amygdala.
Tobacco use is associated with reduced volumes in the amygdala, insula, pallidum, and total grey matter.
Abstract
Cannabis use appears to be associated with smaller volume in the amygdala. Tobacco use appears to be associated with smaller amygdala, insula, pallidum and total grey matter volume.