Cannabis News
Does Cannabis Use Increase or Decrease Men’s Sperm Count?
Published
1 year agoon
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admin
Due to the growing acceptance of cannabis, particularly for medical purposes, scientists are increasingly eager to delve into its impact on health. A particular area of interest lies in exploring how marijuana might affect fertility.
Researchers are actively investigating the potential consequences of smoking marijuana on male fertility. Recent studies have revealed concerning trends, indicating that men in Western nations grapple with a fertility crisis. Specifically, the sperm count among males of reproductive age decreased by more than half between 1973 and 2011.
According to data from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, around 9% of men in the United States have encountered issues with infertility. Hence, scientists have been examining how various changeable factors, including lifestyle decisions, could influence male fertility.
In a recent investigation, a group of researchers from the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston, MA, turned their attention to the impact of marijuana smoking on indicators of male fertility. The results of their study, as outlined in a research paper published in the journal Human Reproduction, contradicted the initial hypothesis they had set forth at the outset of their research.
Study author Jorge Chavarro emphasizes that these surprising results underscore the limited knowledge we possess regarding the impact of marijuana on reproductive health and, more broadly, its overall health effects. He stresses that it’s crucial to exercise caution when interpreting our findings, underscoring the urgency for additional research into the health consequences of marijuana usage.
Increased Sperm Count Among Cannabis Users
While research on the connection between marijuana and fertility is limited, earlier studies have suggested potential adverse effects on semen quality. Additionally, cigarette smoking is well-established as a risk factor for infertility in both males and females.
In light of these known associations, the authors of the recent study initially anticipated that men with a history of marijuana use would demonstrate compromised fertility markers. Dr. Jorge Chavarro, a co-author and associate professor of nutrition and epidemiology at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, noted that their expectations were grounded in existing research. Surprisingly, the data they gathered contradicted these expectations.
Chavarro mentioned, “We spent a substantial two months meticulously reviewing all the data to ensure its accuracy. We were genuinely astounded by these findings.”
The research involved an analysis of health surveys and semen samples from over 650 men, primarily of Caucasian ethnicity, predominantly with a college education, and an average age of 36. These men were part of couples seeking fertility treatment at the Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center between 2000 and 2017.
Notably, most of the men in the study had average sperm counts, implying that other factors related to conception had brought them and their partners to the hospital, according to Chavarro. To evaluate sperm quality, the researchers collected and scrutinized 1,143 semen samples from the study’s subjects. Additionally, blood samples were drawn from 317 of these men, which were then used to assess reproductive hormone levels.
Furthermore, the researchers administered questionnaires to the participants, inquiring about their marijuana usage habits. This included questions about whether they had ever smoked more than two joints and if they were current marijuana users. The surveys inquired about the participants’ historical and current drug use, alongside other aspects of their lifestyles. Among the men, 55% reported having smoked marijuana at some point, and 11% indicated they were current marijuana users.
The researchers discovered that marijuana users typically had greater sperm concentrations and numbers — two fertility indicators — than individuals who had never used marijuana when comparing the survey responses to the semen sample analysis. Additionally, they exhibited lower levels of a hormone associated with infertility. However, The researchers discovered that men who had previously used marijuana had slightly greater sperm counts than men who did not.
Findings Consistent with Interpretations
Despite the unexpected results, Chavarro asserts that they do not imply that men should use marijuana to improve the quality of their sperm. He clarifies that this does not mean using marijuana will increase sperm count. The goal of the study was not to establish causation but rather to identify associations.
He claims that a much more likely reason is that guys who have greater testosterone levels, who often have more sperm than men who have lower testosterone levels, are also more likely to use marijuana. According to Chavarro, it is well established that high testosterone levels are related to greater engagement in risk-seeking behaviors, including drug use, within normal ranges. Slightly higher sperm counts and semen quality correlate with higher testosterone levels.
Additionally, Chavarro points out that several older research linking drug use to poorer semen quality focused on men with substance misuse problems, who frequently use several substances concurrently, making it challenging to “disentangle what might be marijuana from what might be other drugs.” For instance, the current study also examined cocaine use and discovered a link between it and poorer semen quality, indicating that some substances may harm fertility.
The research shows how little scientists understand about marijuana’s impact on health, according to Chavarro. He explains that they might have expected to find what we initially thought, and that would have made us less surprised, leading to a completely different research paper.
But, the opposite results we discovered made us dig deep into the existing literature on marijuana’s effects on health. Unfortunately, there isn’t much research in this area. So, they mostly rely on assumptions, good intentions, and guesses.
Chavarro mentions that this unexpected discovery has inspired him to investigate marijuana’s effects on reproduction and overall health more thoroughly, especially as legalization and recreational use become more common. In 2017, a survey revealed that over half of American adults have experimented with marijuana, and recent federal data indicates that 5% of pregnant women use cannabis.
Chavarro adds that while legalization is advancing rapidly, our knowledge about the health consequences of marijuana use is not keeping pace. They’re essentially working with very limited data.
Conclusion
The research on the relationship between marijuana use and male fertility has unveiled surprising findings. While initial expectations suggested potential harm to sperm quality, the study revealed higher sperm concentrations among marijuana users.
This unexpected outcome underscores the limited knowledge we have regarding the health effects of marijuana, emphasizing the need for further research as legalization and recreational use become more prevalent. As we navigate this landscape, we must base our understanding on solid scientific data rather than assumptions, reflecting the complex and evolving nature of marijuana’s impact on health and reproduction.
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November 14, 2024By
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In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.
The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation
Federal vs. State Laws
Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.
Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry
Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:
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Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.
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Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.
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Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.
Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform
Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.
Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.
The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
Current Regulatory Challenges
The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:
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Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.
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Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.
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Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.
Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation
Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.
In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:
1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.
2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.
3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.
Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.
Implications of Proposed Reforms
Economic Impact
The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:
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Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.
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Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.
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Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.
Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Social Justice Considerations
Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:
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Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.
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Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.
Political Landscape
The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.
Conclusion
Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.
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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em
Published
1 day agoon
November 13, 2024By
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On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!
Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:
- Panelists:
- Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
- Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
- Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
- Election Results Overview:
- Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
- Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
- Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
- Federal and State-Level Developments:
- Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
- Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
- Federal Policy Implications:
- Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
- Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
- International and Domestic Trade:
- Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
- Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
- Economic and Industry Impact:
- Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
- Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
- Future Outlook:
- The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
- State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
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