College students in states with medical marijuana were more likely to use marijuana than students in non-legal states, with less than 30% of all students perceiving marijuana as a health risk.
College health professionals, campus prevention programs, and policymakers.
<30% of students perceived marijuana as a health risk
What the researchers found
Students in medical marijuana states were significantly more likely to use marijuana compared to non-legal states (p<0.001). Less than 30% of students across all states perceived marijuana use as a health risk. Smoking and edibles were the most common consumption methods. No differences in risk perception were found between legal and non-legal states.
Why it matters
With legalization expanding, understanding whether legal status affects use patterns and risk perception among college students informs prevention efforts on campuses.
The numbers in context
7,105 students enrolled. <30% perceived marijuana as a health risk. Students in medical states used significantly more (p<0.001). Smoking and edibles were most common methods.
How the study worked
Secondary analysis of the RADARS System College Survey Program, surveying students in university, technical, or online schools. Students were compared by state marijuana legalization status.
What this study cannot tell us
Cross-sectional, self-reported data. Cannot determine causation. Survey methodology details limited. No distinction between recreational and medical use states. The study notes "concentrated products" but provides limited detail.
How to read the evidence
Large survey but cross-sectional with limited methodological detail and self-reported data.
When this study was published
2019 study.
The bigger picture
The disconnect between increased use in legal states and unchanged risk perception suggests that legalization may normalize use without changing how students think about health risks.
Questions still open
- Does recreational legalization further increase college use beyond medical-only states? Would campus-based education about cannabis health risks change perceptions?
Common questions
Do college students use more marijuana in legal states?
Do college students think marijuana is risky?
Read the original research
Brief report: Characterization of marijuana use in us college students by state marijuana legalization status as reported to an online survey.
The American journal on addictions, 28(4), 266-269
Citation
Wang, George Sam; Haynes, Colleen; Besharat, Andrea; Lait, Marie-Claire Le; Green, Jody L; Dart, Richard C; Roosevelt, Genie. (2019). Brief report: Characterization of marijuana use in us college students by state marijuana legalization status as reported to an online survey.. The American journal on addictions, 28(4), 266-269. https://doi.org/10.1111/ajad.12870