FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: APHA Media Relations
As more U.S. states legalize cannabis use and more adults are exposed to the health risks associated with it, the need for scientific research into the potential benefits and harms of cannabis use has also increased, according to a new supplement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Cannabis Research and Surveillance in the American Journal of Public Health.
Scientific understanding of the public health impacts of cannabis use is far behind current cannabis policy in the U.S., and more resources are needed for research.
It is critical for public health to focus efforts and resources to identify gaps in research, as well as pressing and emerging issues related to cannabis use. This timely supplement includes articles and editorials from many players interested in the public health effects of cannabis, including perspectives from those in nonprofit agencies, governmental agencies and academia.
"We hope this supplement informs public health practitioners, policymakers, and others dedicated to understanding and preventing unsafe cannabis use to continue working toward the shared goal of keeping communities safe and healthy," said Dr. Grant Baldwin, Director of the Division of Overdose Prevention at the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.
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The findings and conclusions in this supplement are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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The American Public Health Association champions optimal, equitable health and well-being for all. With our broad-based member community and 150-year perspective, we influence federal policy to improve the public’s health. Learn more at www.apha.org.