Cannabis use among adolescents and young adults has become a significant area of concern, especially regarding its potential impact on academic performance. A systematic review and meta-analysis published in JAMA Pediatrics explores the association between cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood and academic achievement, shedding light on the implications of early cannabis exposure.
Overview of the Meta-Analysis
This comprehensive meta-analysis evaluated data from 63 studies, encompassing 438,329 individuals, to determine the impact of cannabis use on academic outcomes. The studies analysed were selected through a meticulous search of several databases, including CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, up to November 10, 2023. The review provides moderate-certainty evidence linking cannabis use with lower academic achievement.
Key Findings on Academic Performance
The findings indicate that cannabis use during adolescence and young adulthood is associated with several adverse academic outcomes. Moderate-certainty evidence suggests that cannabis users are less likely to achieve high school completion, university enrollment, and postsecondary degree attainment. Specifically, the odds ratio (OR) for achieving grades B and above is 0.61 (95% CI, 0.52-0.71), indicating a probable decrease in academic performance.
School Dropout and Absenteeism
Cannabis use is also associated with increased school dropout rates and absenteeism. The meta-analysis reveals an OR of 2.19 (95% CI, 1.73-2.78) for school dropout and 2.31 (95% CI, 1.76-3.03) for absenteeism. These statistics highlight the potential educational disruptions caused by cannabis use during critical developmental periods.
University Enrollment and Postsecondary Attainment
The likelihood of university enrollment and postsecondary degree attainment is negatively impacted by cannabis use, with ORs of 0.72 (95% CI, 0.60-0.87) and 0.69 (95% CI, 0.62-0.77), respectively. These figures suggest that cannabis users are less likely to pursue higher education, which can have long-term implications for career prospects and socioeconomic status.
Employment and Cannabis Use
Low-certainty evidence from the analysis suggests that cannabis use may be linked to increased unemployment, with an OR of 1.50 (95% CI, 1.15-1.96). This association underscores the potential economic consequences of cannabis use, as it may hinder individuals’ ability to secure and maintain employment.
Subgroup Analyses
The review also includes subgroup analyses that indicate worse academic outcomes for students who frequently use cannabis or begin using it at an earlier age. These findings emphasise the importance of understanding different patterns of cannabis use and their distinct impacts on educational attainment.
While the review highlights significant associations between cannabis use and academic performance, it also points to the need for further research to explore interventions and policies that can mitigate the negative effects of cannabis exposure during adolescence. Understanding upstream and downstream factors is crucial for developing effective strategies to support youth education and wellbeing.
Source: JAMA Pediatrics
