Summary: A recent Gallup poll reveals that half of the Americans have tried cannabis at some point in their lives. This number has seen an increase from the previous years, with more people now consuming cannabis than cigarettes. The poll also highlighted concerns about the effects of cannabis on young adults and teenagers.
Half of Americans Admit to Trying Cannabis, Says Gallup Poll
According to the latest Gallup poll, 50% of Americans have admitted to trying cannabis. This number surpasses those who smoke cigarettes, with 17% of Americans being regular cannabis consumers. However, there is a significant concern among three-quarters of the population about the effects of cannabis on young adults and teenagers.
The recent data shows an increase from the past years. Between 2017 and 2019, only 45% of Americans had tried cannabis. The number of regular cannabis consumers has also seen a slight increase from the 16% recorded a year ago. This poll is a part of Gallup’s annual Consumption Habits survey, which was conducted from July 3 to 27.
Gallup began asking Americans about their cannabis consumption habits in 2013, with 7% admitting to it. However, they have been tracking these trends since 1969. From 1969 to 1977, the number of Americans consuming cannabis jumped from 4% to 24%. By 1985, this number rose to 33% and remained around 40% until 2015, peaking at 44%. From 2015 to 2021, the consumption rate has stayed between 45-49%. During this period, several states have legalized cannabis.
Public support for cannabis legalization has also seen a significant rise. From a mere 12% in favor in 1969, the support has grown to 68% today. However, the poll primarily focuses on smoking, not considering other forms of consumption like edibles, vapes, or concentrates. The consumption rates across different age groups, education levels, and genders are relatively similar, hovering around 50%. Men (54%) are more likely to have tried cannabis than women (44%). Political affiliations also play a role, with Democrats (57%) and Independents (52%) more likely to consume than Republicans (39%).
A majority of Americans are not overly concerned about cannabis’s effects on adults, with only 19% being “very” concerned. However, 75% of Americans express concern about its effects on young adults or teenagers who are regular users. This concern may stem from warnings by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about potential negative effects on developing brains.
The poll’s results are significant, indicating a shift in public perception and acceptance of cannabis. With 50% of Americans admitting to trying it, federal legalization might be on the horizon. Some speculate that the Democrats might campaign for full-scale legalization in the 2024 elections, following a pattern similar to Canada’s legalization process.
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