420 with CNW — Facebook Appears to No Longer Censor Marijuana Searches

Earlier this year, Meta stated it would shift how it handles controversial topics by loosening certain content rules, particularly around issues frequently debated in politics, such as gender identity and immigration. However, when it came to cannabis, the company continued to censor search results for key terms. Instead of showing related content, users saw alerts asking them to report any drug sales.

The restriction appears to have been lifted, with searches that were previously blocked now delivering actual results and the earlier warnings no longer appear. Though many digital platforms enforce rules against selling drugs and limit who can view substance-related posts, Meta’s actions drew criticism for being too broad and silencing legitimate content meant to educate and inform.

Previously, typing in phrases like “Marijuana Policy Project” or “Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission” on Facebook returned zero results—just a notice encouraging people to flag drug-related posts. That no longer seems to be the case. It’s unclear exactly when the policy was revised.

NORML’s political director Morgan Fox had spoken out about the impact of Meta’s restrictions saying they severely limited how advocates could reach the public. After noticing the shift in search results, he expressed hope that the changes were permanent and wouldn’t just be a short-term adjustment. He also stressed the need for Meta to implement more consistent and transparent moderation systems to avoid repeated censorship of advocacy and educational content.

Kat Murti, who leads Students for Sensible Drug Policy, welcomed the search update but pointed out that issues persist. She mentioned meeting with Meta more than a year ago to highlight concerns, including how the platform’s algorithms were limiting visibility for accounts following the law and supporting public safety.

Meta’s influence in shaping public access to information is massive, Murti said. People turn to these platforms for life-saving advice on overdose prevention, civic engagement, and drug policy reform. Yet much of this content still faces unnecessary censorship, she added.

Illustrator Brian “Box” Brown, a long-time critic of Meta’s policies, said he’s noticed some changes, too. While his posts aren’t getting flagged as frequently, the reach of some cannabis-related content still feels throttled. Brown, who once toned down his own content to avoid penalties, said he now plans to stop self-censoring and see how the platform responds.

Despite growing legalization across states, social media platforms continue to flag and restrict cannabis content, prompting many creators to look for alternative spaces to connect with their audiences.

Any positive adjustments to the policies of major social media platforms are likely to be welcomed by the marijuana industry, including entities like Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) that closely observe what is happening in the U.S.

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CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

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420 with CNW — Could Hemp-Sourced THC Finally Push Congress to Act?

Congress is finally moving toward addressing laws tied to the marijuana industry after years of inaction. However, instead of expanding support—such as allowing marijuana businesses access to banking services, easing tax burdens, or opening up interstate trade—lawmakers are shifting their focus to restricting products made from hemp-derived THC.

Industry experts and lobbyists say a recent GOP-backed budget plan, introduced in the House and passed by a subcommittee, aims to outlaw products made with hemp-derived THC at the federal level. Even if the proposal doesn’t make it through Congress, it signals a turning point. Many in the industry now believe the relatively unregulated days of online sales and storefronts may be nearing an end.

According to Michael Bronstein, head of the American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp, it’s no longer a question of whether Congress will act, but when and how extensively.

The controversy picked up speed when Representative Andy Harris proposed a redefinition of “hemp” that would close what many view as a legal gap in the 2018 Farm Bill. Harris argues that the law has allowed for the unchecked sale of intoxicating hemp products—like delta-8 THC and THCA flower—via gas stations and websites, without oversight.

His amendment, which narrowly passed its first vote, seeks to ban high-THCA hemp flower and remove lab-created cannabinoids like delta-10 THC and THCP from the legal definition of hemp. If adopted, the change could force many hemp producers and sellers to shut down or drastically alter their businesses. Still, who would enforce such a ban and how effective it would be remains unclear.

Despite this push, Harris’ proposal faces significant challenges. Democrats are unlikely to support a bill that also includes heavy cuts to social programs. And given the narrow GOP majority in the House due to recent retirements, a bill that loses just a few Republican votes could be dead on arrival.

Moreover, states with large hemp farming industries like North Carolina and Kentucky may resist changes that could hurt their agricultural economies. Many lawmakers seem unwilling to upset the farmers and small businesses that invested heavily under the original Farm Bill.

Christopher Lackner, who leads the Hemp Beverage Alliance, said there’s confidence Congress won’t abandon the industry. He pointed out that President Trump, who signed the original Farm Bill, is still in office, which gives advocates hope.

Interestingly, Harris’ proposal has sparked unity among competing marijuana sectors. Instead of dividing hemp and marijuana stakeholders, it has brought them together in opposition. Liquor distributors, too, are backing hemp products to make up for falling alcohol sales.

Advocacy groups are now using this moment to better inform legislators about regulated hemp and the success of sensible rules in certain states. Meanwhile, many on Capitol Hill agree that the situation created by the 2018 bill needs fixing—but they’re wary of swinging the pendulum too far in the other direction.

Marijuana companies like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) from inside and outside the U.S. will be watching any decisions that federal lawmakers make on the hemp derivatives since this could have significant impacts upon the hemp and marijuana industries.

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420 with CNW — Sky News Investigation Uncovers Illicit Marijuana Sellers in the UK Using QR Codes to Attract Buyers

While walking through Burton upon Trent, Steve noticed unusual stickers on lampposts and bins with a shiny green marijuana leaf, a QR code, and the phrase “get your delivery.” Curious, he scanned the code with his phone and was taken to a polished website selling cannabis in various forms—vapes, oils, gummies, buds, and even pre-rolled joints.

Steve had recently moved to the area and was dealing with severe pain from a back injury. He wanted an alternative to prescription opioids but didn’t feel safe buying drugs on the street. The site he found operated like a legitimate online store. It offered next-day delivery, had a variety of products, and included positive reviews on platforms like Trustpilot and Google.

He remembers being nervous the first time he ordered. “The package smelled strong,” he said. “It was shaped to fit through the letterbox, so the postman just dropped it in without a knock.”

Stickers just like the ones Steve saw have appeared in cities and towns across the UK—places like Birmingham, London, Glasgow, Shrewsbury, and even near police stations and schools. An investigation by Sky News discovered at least three different sticker styles, each linking to separate but related websites. All of them had professional branding, and their backend code revealed a rotating list of bank accounts and business names used during purchases.

The businesses are tied to a group of Lithuanian nationals, many of whom are linked to addresses in East London. One of these addresses is connected to a convicted criminal from Lithuania. Mail tracking data suggests the shipments are processed through a local Romford mail center. Moreover, a TRM Labs digital wallet analysis found that one of the websites had taken in over $100,000 by mid-March, which likely understates the total, as many buyers use traditional bank transfers.

When investigators visited a woman who owns two of the homes tied to the operation, she claimed to know nothing about it and said the people involved had since left the country.

Tony Saggers, formerly with the National Crime Agency, says this kind of operation shows how drug sales have moved from the dark web to regular websites, making access easier for everyday users. The volume of products being sold also points to large-scale cannabis production, likely within the UK.

Ben, a student at the University of York, scanned a sticker out of curiosity. He’d never used drugs before but said the sleek website made it feel like a real online store. He received a £10 ($13.57) joint in clean packaging but didn’t like the experience and chose not to repeat it.

Dr. Simon Erridge, from Curaleaf Clinic—a legal medical cannabis provider—warns people like Ben and Steve are gambling with their health. His clinic’s research found that 90% of seized marijuana samples had contaminants like mold, lead, or bacteria. Other tests showed many samples didn’t even contain real marijuana, with some having dangerous synthetic substances.

Despite the risks, more people are turning to online sources. A survey found that while friends and dealers remain common suppliers, online sales—especially through QR codes—are rising, particularly among younger adults.

While law enforcement is aware of the sticker campaign and its connection to drug sales, they’ve made few arrests. Officers in some regions now remove the stickers when they find them and encourage others to do the same. However, police say many of these websites operate from outside the UK, making enforcement difficult.

The proliferation of illicit marijuana sales in the UK underscores the necessity to revisit the country’s drug policies and possibly create a regulated market where companies similar to Trulieve Cannabis (CNX: TRUL) (OTCQX: TCNNF) can operate legally and have their products meet the set standards prior to market entry.

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420 with CNW — The Unseen Immigration Risks Associated with Working in the Marijuana Industry

With the current presidential administration putting a spotlight on immigration enforcement, it’s more important than ever for employers to make sure their hiring and employment practices follow federal immigration rules. This is especially critical for businesses involved in the legal marijuana industry at the state level. Even though more states are legalizing marijuana for medical and recreational use, federal law still lists marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance—meaning it is treated as illegal under federal statutes.

For individuals who are not U.S. citizens, any connection to marijuana—even if it’s legal under state law—can lead to serious immigration consequences. According to federal immigration law, someone who has been convicted of or has admitted to using or being involved with controlled substances may be denied entry to the U.S., barred from getting a visa, or even deported. This includes lawful permanent residents (green card holders), who can be removed from the country if they’re convicted under these drug laws, unless the offense is a one-time possession of under 30 grams.

The law broadly defines drug trafficking to include cultivating, producing, selling, distributing, financing, or helping in any way with these activities. Because of this wide definition, people working in state-legal cannabis roles—from farm workers to delivery drivers, investors, or managers—could fall under the label of “traffickers” in the eyes of immigration officials.

That includes workers on temporary visas like the H-2A visa used for agricultural labor. Even if the work is legal in their state, involvement in cannabis may disqualify them from future visa applications and can open employers up to serious penalties if they failed to disclose the nature of the job during the visa process.

Non-citizens applying for visas or entering the U.S.—even just for a short visit—may be refused entry if they have cannabis-related convictions or involvement. The U.S. Department of State’s Foreign Affairs Manual gives consular officers wide discretion to deny visas based on even a hint of participation in cannabis activity.

The impact doesn’t stop there. Permanent residents applying for U.S. citizenship must demonstrate “good moral character.” Violations of drug laws—whether through conviction or admission—can prevent them from meeting this requirement during the eligibility period, which is either three or five years, depending on how they received their green card.

For these reasons, people who are not U.S. citizens should steer clear of cannabis-related work or business, no matter what state law permits. Likewise, employers in the cannabis industry should avoid hiring non-citizens to reduce the risk of legal trouble for both the business and the employee. Federal immigration rules still apply, and violating them—knowingly or not—can have serious consequences.

These persisting prohibitionist policies against marijuana despite the changing societal attitudes to the substance are probably a concern to industry actors like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) that have worked hard to avail licensed products that provide value to users, whether for recreational or medical purposes.

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420 with CNW — Missouri Officials to Make Unannounced Cannabis Retail Location Visits to Test Products

Missouri’s marijuana oversight agency will kick off a new initiative aimed at ensuring cannabis products on store shelves are truly safe from next month. Inspectors from the Division of Cannabis Regulation will begin making unannounced visits to dispensaries each month, collecting roughly 50 products for independent analysis at the Missouri State Public Health Reference Laboratory. These samples will be tested for contaminants such as pesticides, mold, and other potential hazards.

According to Ryan Bernard, who leads the division’s research and testing team, the program has been in the pipeline for some time. It’s designed to add an extra layer of accountability for the state’s licensed cannabis testing labs. Bernard said they’re not expecting any red flags, saying, “We won’t know what we’re dealing with until we see the data, but I trust our labs are following the rules.”

However, some experts in the national marijuana testing industry aren’t so optimistic. Josh Swider, a lab executive and vice chair of a national cannabis lab working group, warned that similar surprise testing programs in other states have revealed serious issues. He pointed to a case in Arizona where a lab was cited for over a dozen violations, including faulty methods for detecting pesticides and misleading potency results.

Swider also noted that a common issue across the U.S. is inflated THC numbers, which can mislead consumers about product strength. Missouri may encounter the same problems, he added.

Previously, Missouri regulators had discussed a program where licensed labs would cross-check each other’s results—a concept known as “round robin” testing. Although considered critical by Division Director Amy Moore, the plan never materialized. Instead, the upcoming random sampling will serve as the state’s first attempt at independent oversight.

Lawmakers have already begun funding the effort, allocating $3.8 million for the testing initiative in FY 2024/25. However, much of it went unused due to delays in setting up the necessary lab systems. Another $2.4 million was set aside for the current year, with a similar amount approved for the upcoming fiscal year.

Bernard acknowledged that testing 50 products out of the hundreds of thousands available in the market barely scratches the surface. Still, he described the effort as an early step toward broader oversight. He added that supply delays, equipment problems, and other challenges have slowed the rollout.

Last year, experts raised concerns over Missouri’s testing ecosystem during a cannabis industry conference. It was revealed that one lab— “Lab D”—handled 82% of testing in the state and reported significantly fewer mold contamination cases than others. While most labs in Missouri reported mold detection rates around the national average of 3.8%, Lab D’s rate was below 0.5%. This raised suspicions that some issues may be slipping through undetected.

Even so, Bernard said he stands by the current system. “All labs are required to meet the same standards,” he said. “Without further investigation, I believe the testing is being done properly.”

The broader marijuana industry, including companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF), is likely to welcome the efforts geared at assuring consumers in Missouri that the products they buy from licensed outlets are exactly what their labels say they are.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana CEO Asks Texas Governor to Veto Bill Banning THC

Texas is on the verge of banning a wide range of THC-infused items like vapes, edibles, and beverages. A newly approved bill by state lawmakers is now in the hands of Governor Greg Abbott, who will decide whether to sign it into law.

If Abbott approves the bill, it would introduce new felony charges for activities such as producing, distributing, or intending to distribute certain hemp-based products. The proposal also outlines penalties for falsifying lab reports and operating without proper authorization. Some violations would be classified as misdemeanors and could lead to fines or even jail time.

Under the proposed changes, all hemp products containing synthetic cannabinoids would be banned. However, non-psychoactive compounds like CBG and CBD would remain legal. The state’s limited medical marijuana program, which allows specific low-THC treatments for qualifying health conditions, would likely continue unaffected.

Peter Barsoom, the founder and CEO of marijuana brand 1906, is speaking out against the bill. He argues it disregards the needs of many adult users, including military veterans, who rely on hemp products as part of their daily health routines.

When asked why traditional medications like Tylenol and Advil aren’t enough for pain relief, Barsoom explained that many adults have found hemp products to be more effective. He cited both personal experiences and scientific studies as evidence that cannabis-based options can offer real benefits for certain individuals.

Barsoom emphasized that people should have options when managing their health. “We’re not saying cannabis is the best solution for everyone,” he said. “But people deserve the freedom to choose what works for them, whether it’s a prescription drug, an over-the-counter remedy or a marijuana product.”

He also believes the bill was rushed through due to political pressure, particularly from Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. Patrick has made cracking down on THC a top priority, saying it’s necessary to protect young people from substance abuse. He also criticized the media for not giving the issue enough attention.

Barsoom warns that the ban could wipe out jobs and hurt legitimate businesses. “If this passes, Texas could lose thousands of jobs and force responsible companies like ours out of the market,” he said. “The state should focus on smart regulation instead of rushing into an all-out ban.”

His message to Abbott: “Veto this bill. Don’t take away a vital option from people who truly need it. Push for real, practical regulation instead of an all-out ban.”

It would be eye-opening to hear what marijuana firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) have to say about the regulatory direction that Texas is taking with relation to hemp-derived intoxicants.

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420 with CNW — Are the Days of THCA Now Numbered?

Steven Brown, the CEO of Nothing But Hemp, believes that THCA flower is legal under federal law due to Farm Bill 2018. But even though his company runs 11 stores across two states and offers a wide range of hemp-derived products, you won’t find THCA flower on his shelves—or his website.

Why? The legal environment is changing fast. More states without legal recreational cannabis are updating their laws to treat THCA flower the same as traditional marijuana, making it illegal under state law.

Some legal experts maintain that THCA is still permitted under current federal law. But as states give law enforcement the green light to treat THCA like cannabis and seize it, business owners like Brown are backing off.

A notable incident happened in Tennessee in 2024 when police confiscated a large batch of what they believed to be cannabis. However, since THCA wasn’t specifically addressed in the state’s laws at the time, the authorities ended up paying $735,000 in damages to two hemp companies after the seized products went bad. That situation is unlikely to repeat after January 1, 2026 when a new law will go into effect redefining THCA as a form of THC.

Texas is following a similar path. In May, legislators passed a measure tightening the definition of THC. Though the bill is awaiting the governor’s signature, hemp industry supporters have submitted over 118,000 signatures urging a veto.

Neither Texas nor Tennessee has legalized medical cannabis, making them key markets for hemp-derived alternatives. Critics of the new bans argue they will only drive consumers toward the unregulated market and jeopardize thousands of compliant businesses.

Much of the confusion stems from a loophole created by the Farm Bill 2018, which set a THC limit of 0.3% by dry weight but didn’t account for THCA, which converts into THC when heated. Although federal guidelines require that THCA be included in THC testing through a heating process, enforcement has been spotty. According to cannabis attorney Rachel Gillette, this has led to widespread mislabeling and inconsistent regulation.

Federal lawmakers know this issue exists and may address it in the next Farm Bill. But that legislation is already long overdue, leaving regulation to the states for now.

Tennessee will still permit hemp-derived THC drinks, which are distributed by businesses like Brown’s and even major cannabis companies. Observers say this highlights a strange inconsistency: while smokable flower is banned, edibles and beverages remain okay.

Some companies are pushing boundaries regardless. Some businesses in Oregon, where cannabis is cheap due to oversupply, continue to ship THCA flower to states where it’s prohibited. One Maryland-based firm, SuperGreens Hemp Co., recently announced the purchase of 36 THCA farms nationwide, including in states with restrictive cannabis laws.

There’s barely any oversight beyond the point of cultivation, which Gillette calls a “huge gap in enforcement.” With thousands of shops and online sellers, it’s nearly impossible to crack down on them all. Instead, states might go after a few big names to send a warning.

Many agree that the demand for hemp-based THC is driven by federal cannabis prohibition and strict state laws. Hemp is cheaper to produce, faces fewer rules, and attracts entrepreneurs wary of heavy regulation. That’s why some push for crackdowns—to level the playing field with licensed cannabis businesses.

But Brown isn’t switching lanes. “I’ve built a company that’s nearly eight figures,” he said. “There’s no way I’m touching state-regulated cannabis. Too many headaches. Too much risk.”

The marijuana industry, including leading firms like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CNX: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), will be following how the THCA regulatory landscape unfolds across the country as it could impact the trajectory of the marijuana industry.

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The Alternative Products Expo Nashville Everything the Counterculture Industry Has to Offer

The Alternative Products Expo is proud to announce the Nashville edition of its industry-leading expo. Carrying on a legacy running since 2017, the expo offers manufacturers, retailers, enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs a platform to showcase everything the counterculture industry offers, for today and tomorrow.

Participating brands will be among the first to tap into the emerging market and build brand recognition at the expo. They will also be able to capitalize on growth and profitability while positioning themselves as leaders in a rapidly evolving market. Previous Alternative Products Expos have attracted a wide range of participants, from manufacturers to individuals in retail, wholesale, and distribution. The 2023 event attracted over 16,000 participants, stamping its position as the go-to expo in its space.

This year’s Nashville event will be no different. With its strategic location, it is set to attract thousands of participants, with the guarantee of identifying new business opportunities, asserting retail dominance, understanding marketplace dynamics, and understanding the consumer base. The expo will also be an excellent networking opportunity, all wrapped up in what is a unique experience in a culturally rich city.

Nashville is currently considered the heartbeat of innovation and opportunity. Its strategic location offers easy access to major markets and a convenient transportation network. From a regulatory standpoint, Tennessee’s favorable laws for hemp, vape, and smoke shop products make it easier for businesses, big and small, to operate and thrive. These have played an integral role in making Nashville one of the fastest-growing cities, as it provides ample business opportunities.

With the Alternative Products Expo, participants and attendees are assured of gaining access to these benefits and more. The expo has been lauded for its exceptional location selection, the caliber of its exhibitors, and the quality of attendees. Everyone who has gone to these expos before has left with value, connections, and an opportunity to grow their brand.

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CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on cannabis news and the cannabis sector. It is one of 70+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

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420 with CNW — 7 Ways Marijuana Can Help Cancer Patients

Every year, more than two million individuals across Canada and the U.S. are diagnosed with some form of cancer. Among the most frequently diagnosed types are breast, prostate, lung, skin, and colorectal cancers.

While traditional treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery remain central, medical cannabis is gaining attention as a powerful supplemental tool in managing symptoms and improving patient well-being. Here’s how it’s making a difference.

Helping ease chemotherapy side effects

Chemotherapy often causes intense nausea and vomiting, which can discourage patients from sticking with treatment. Cannabis, particularly the compound THC, has been found to help reduce these symptoms. Some studies have shown it to be more effective for certain individuals than common prescription anti-nausea drugs.

Managing pain effectively

Chronic pain is a common issue for people living with cancer, whether it stems from the disease itself or its treatment. Both CBD and THC, the primary active ingredients in cannabis, have been shown to help relieve pain. Compared to opioid medications, cannabis is often viewed as a safer alternative with a lower risk of addiction and fewer major side effects.

Reducing nausea and improving appetite

One of the first approved medical uses for synthetic THC was to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. These symptoms can interfere with eating and recovery. Cannabinoids activate certain receptors in the brain that help control nausea and boost appetite, making it easier for cancer patients to maintain proper nutrition during treatment.

Supporting weight and muscle maintenance

Cancer-related weight loss, known as cachexia, can weaken the body and hinder recovery. THC has been shown to encourage food intake and help maintain weight, which can support better treatment tolerance and improve energy levels.

Easing anxiety and sleep problems

The stress of dealing with cancer often leads to depression, anxiety, and sleep problems. CBD, a non-psychoactive part of cannabis, has shown the potential to reduce anxiety and help people sleep better. Research suggests that many patients experience significant relief after using CBD-rich products.

Addressing trauma and PTSD

The emotional strain of battling cancer can sometimes lead to post-traumatic stress symptoms. Cannabis, particularly CBD, has shown promise in calming the nervous system, easing anxiety, and improving rest—key factors in supporting emotional resilience.

Possible impact on cancer cells

Emerging research suggests that cannabis compounds might play a role in slowing the growth of certain tumors. While this science is still in its early stages, some findings indicate that THC can help trigger cancer cell death and reduce blood supply to tumors, offering hope for future treatment options.

It would be helpful to talk to a professional at companies like Curaleaf Holdings Corp. (TSE: CURA) (OTCQX: CURLF) or any other medical cannabis firm near you to learn more about the various products that could assist with the symptoms you are grappling with.

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420 with CNW — Federally Funded Research Says More Older US Citizens Are Using Cannabis

A new JAMA study backed by federal funding reveals that cannabis use among Americans aged 65 and older has been growing steadily, especially as more states have legalized cannabis for both recreational and medical purposes.

Although older adults were already slowly increasing their cannabis consumption over the past two decades, new data show a sharper uptick in recent years. The research, based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, reports that monthly marijuana use in this age group has jumped from 4.8% in 2021 to 7% in 2023. Back in 2005, only 1% of older adults reported using marijuana in the past year, compared to 4.2% in 2018, marking a steady upward climb.

The uptick spans nearly every demographic category, but it was more pronounced in some groups. People identifying their race as “other,” white individuals, women, those with college or advanced degrees, higher earners, married individuals, and residents of states where medical cannabis is legal all reported higher usage rates. People dealing with several chronic health conditions also reported increased cannabis use in recent years.

The researchers point out changes in how older adults are using marijuana and who is using it. One interesting shift involves income levels. For instance, high-income earners, who once reported the lowest marijuana use, now top the list. The authors suggest this may be because these individuals can more easily afford medical marijuana, which can be costly.

The study notes that the growing use of marijuana among older people, especially in states with legal access, highlights a need for better education and guidance for both medical professionals and patients.

The report also mentions that older marijuana users often still consume tobacco or drink heavily, although there’s no strong evidence that marijuana use is causing an increase in those habits. It encourages medical professionals to routinely ask older patients about marijuana use and offer guidance on the risks, which may include negative effects such as heart and lung problems, digestive issues, stroke, cognitive decline, falls, and drug interactions.

Alongside the report, JAMA published an editorial note stressing that while marijuana might offer some medical benefits for older adults, the research so far has been mixed. Many studies show promise, but others report minimal effects. The risks are also real and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Ultimately, the findings emphasize a growing need for solid, reliable research on how cannabis affects seniors and for medical professionals to provide better guidance to avoid harmful outcomes.

The data on the increasing usage rates of marijuana by seniors opens opportunities for companies like Cronos Group Inc. (NASDAQ: CRON) (TSX: CRON) to develop cannabis products tailored to the unique needs of this demographic so that they can leverage the benefits that come from serving this segment of the population.

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