Adolescence is a critical period for brain development, and a recent study suggests that the earlier use of cannabis, especially during this vulnerable time, may be associated with slower gains in several cognitive abilities. It is widely known that the most important stages of brain development occur from childhood to early adulthood, with the development of areas that support memory, attention, language, processing speed, and self-control occurring during this period.
Given the importance of this developmental stage, researchers want to understand whether cannabis use could influence those developmental pathways. This question is becoming more important as cannabis becomes more widely available, THC concentrations continue to rise, and cannabis products are increasingly marketed to youth.
To better understand the potential impacts on cognitive development, researchers analyzed data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, which follows children and teens into early adulthood. The study included over eleven thousand youth ages 9 to 17 and assessed cannabis exposure using both self-reports and objective biological testing. Researchers also accounted for factors that may influence neurocognitive development, including family history, prenatal substance exposure, and use of other substances.
The findings showed that earlier cannabis use was associated with slower neurocognitive development over time. Areas affected included:
- Immediate recall
- Processing speed
- Inhibitory control
- Visuospatial processing
- Language
- Working Memory
Reduced growth in these areas during adolescence can affect important aspects of daily life including school performance, driving, decision-making, and other essential life skills. Childhood and adolescence remain critical windows for prevention and early intervention efforts that can help delay or prevent substance use initiation.
Right now, during National Prevention Week, communities nationwide are highlighting science-based strategies to prevent substance use and promote mental health. Now is the time to educate teens and families about the risks of early cannabis use on brain development.
For science-based prevention resources, including age-specific educational videos about brain development and substance use, visit Know Your Neuro and SAMHSA’s dedicated page for National Prevention Week.
Source:
Wade, N.E., Sullivan, R.M., Wallace, A.L., Visontay, R., Szpak, V., Lisdahl, K., Huestis, M., Byrne, H., Mewton, L., Jacobus, J., Tapert, S. (2026). Longitudinal neurocognitive trajectories in a large cohort of youth who use cannabis: combining self-report and toxicology. Neuropsychopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41386-026-02395-1
