INTRODUCTION:
Weed, also known as marijuana, is a psychoactive drug that comes from the Cannabis plant. Its use can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it was used for medicinal and spiritual purposes. Weed is typically prepared by drying the leaves, flowers, and stems of the Cannabis plant, which can then be smoked, vaporized, or ingested in various forms, such as edibles or tinctures. (1)
The first recorded use of weed dates back to ancient China, where it was used for medicinal purposes as early as 2737 B C. It was also used in India and the Middle East for spiritual and religious purposes. The use of weed became more widespread in the 20th century, particularly in the United States and Europe, where it was used for recreational purposes.
In recent years, the use of weed has become increasingly popular and has been legalized for medical and/or recreational use in several countries around the world. Despite its increasing acceptance, the use of weed remains a topic of debate due to its potential health effects and legal implications.
As such, it is important to have a comprehensive understanding of what weed is, where it came from, and how it is prepared. This knowledge can help individuals make informed decisions about its use and better understand its potential benefits and risks.
STATISTICS ON THE PERCENTAGE OF WEED USERS AROUND THE WORLD:
- Approximately 192 million people worldwide use weed, which represents about 3.9% of the global population aged 15-64. (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)
- The highest rates of weed use are found in North America, followed by Oceania and Europe. In North America, an estimated 14.5% of the population aged 15-64 use weed. In Oceania, the rate is 10.6%, while in Europe, it is 7.0%. (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)
- The lowest rates of weed use are found in Asia (2.1%) and Africa (1.9%). (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime)
- In the United States, the use of weed among adults aged 18 or older has increased significantly in recent years. In 2020, an estimated 68 million adults reported using weed in the past year, representing 26% of the adult population. (National Survey on Drug Use and Health)
- Among youth aged 12-17 in the United States, the use of weed has remained stable in recent years, with an estimated 1.4 million reporting past-month use in 2020. (National Survey on Drug Use and Health)
- Canada has one of the highest rates of weed use in the world, with an estimated 27% of the population aged 15 or older reporting past-year use in 2019. (Government of Canada)
- In Europe, the highest rates of weed use are found in the Netherlands and Spain, with an estimated 25% and 19% of adults aged 15-64 reporting past-year use, respectively. (European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction)
These statistics highlight the significant prevalence of weed use around the world and the regional differences in its use. It is important to note that these figures may vary depending on the source of data and the specific population studied. (2)
EFFECT OF WEED ON BODY HEALTH:
Weed, affects the body through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex system of receptors, enzymes, and endocannabinoids that regulate various physiological processes, including appetite, pain, mood, and immune function. The active compounds in weed, called cannabinoids, interact with the ECS to produce their effects.
The most well-known cannabinoid in weed is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, particularly in the areas responsible for memory, perception, and coordination. This binding leads to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that produces feelings of pleasure and reward. This is what causes the "high" associated with weed use.
THC also has other effects on the body, including an increase in heart rate and blood pressure and a decrease in body temperature. These effects can be harmful, particularly for individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.
Another cannabinoid in weed, cannabidiol (CBD), has been found to have potential therapeutic benefits for conditions such as epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce a "high" and does not have the same effects on cognition and coordination.
The use of weed, particularly long-term use, can have negative effects on various physiological processes in the body. For example, smoking weed can damage the lungs and lead to respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis and lung cancer. Additionally, long-term use of weed has been associated with an increased risk of mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
CONCLUSION:
The use of weed is a complex issue that has health, social, and legal implications. While the percentage of weed users around the world is significant, it is essential to understand the potential health effects of weed use, particularly in the long term. The use of weed should be approached with caution, and individuals should be aware of the potential risks and benefits associated with its use. Further research is needed to better understand the impact of weed on body health and to develop effective strategies for reducing its potential harms.
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