What question did this study set out to answer?

To explore the relationship between cannabis use, brain volume, and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults.

December 11, 2025

Lifetime Cannabis Use Is Associated with Brain Volume and Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Key Points

To explore the relationship between cannabis use, brain volume, and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults.
Observed brain volume and cognitive function in relation to cannabis use across different age groups.
Considered sex differences in the analysis.
Examined potential protective effects of cannabis in older populations.
Cannabis use is linked to changes in brain volume and cognitive function.
Younger adults may face risks while older adults could experience protective benefits from cannabis.
Sex differences indicate variability in endocannabinoid system influences.

Abstract

Results highlight that cannabis may influence brain health differently across the lifespan, potentially offering protective effects in older age while posing risks earlier in development. Protective effects may result from endocannabinoid-mediated modulation of inflammation, immune function, and neurodegeneration. Observed sex differences likely reflect variation in the endocannabinoid system and underscore the importance of considering sex as a biological variable in studies of cannabis and brain health.

Lifetime Cannabis Use Is Associated with Brain Volume and Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Key Points

Abstract

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