Title: Study Finds Shift in Perception: More Americans View Cannabis Smoke as Safer than Tobacco Smoke
Subtitle: Changing attitudes towards marijuana’s safety prompt concerns over potential risks
In a recent study published by the American Medical Association (AMA), it has been revealed that a growing number of Americans believe smoking marijuana or being exposed to secondhand cannabis smoke is safer than smoking or being around tobacco smoke. The study, which surveyed 5,035 U.S. adults between 2017 and 2021, indicated a significant shift in perception over time.
According to the findings, in 2017, 33.7 percent of respondents believed that smoking marijuana once a day was more dangerous than smoking a daily cigarette. However, by 2021, this percentage dropped to 25.5 percent, while 44.3 percent considered cannabis smoke to be safer. Similar trends were observed when it came to the perceived risks of secondhand cannabis and cigarette smoke.
The study’s results suggest that the changing views are not necessarily influenced by the legality of cannabis in respondents’ states of residence. This indicates that the shift in perception towards cannabis smoke may be a nationwide trend, rather than one connected solely to states with cannabis legalization.
The authors of the study express concern over the changing attitudes towards marijuana’s safety. They stress the need for public health efforts to educate the public on the potential risks associated with cannabis smoke exposure and to curb the increasing social acceptance of such exposure.
The release of this study follows a recent poll by Gallup that showed half of Americans have tried marijuana, and more people now actively smoke cannabis than tobacco cigarettes. Additionally, a poll conducted by the American Psychiatric Association found that Americans view marijuana as less dangerous and addictive than cigarettes, alcohol, opioids, and technology.
The findings of this study align with previous surveys and studies that have consistently shown Americans perceive cannabis to be less dangerous than alcohol or tobacco. Moreover, an earlier study published in May revealed that the legalization of marijuana at the state level is associated with a decline in adult tobacco use.
As attitudes towards cannabis continue to evolve, it becomes essential for public health initiatives to ensure that individuals have accurate information regarding the potential risks associated with marijuana use and secondhand exposure. With marijuana use on the rise and its perceived safety increasing, it is crucial to address these shifting perceptions to protect the well-being of individuals across the nation.
Note: This news article has a word count of 387 words.
