Most Common Methods of Marijuana Consumption: Smoking, Eating, Vaping, and Dabbing

Recent research highlights that the most prevalent ways individuals consume marijuana are through smoking, eating, vaping, and dabbing. This information comes from a study published in the April 10 issue of the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report by the CDC. The study analyzed data from 22 U.S. states and two territories collected in 2022, focusing on the patterns of marijuana use among various demographic groups.

According to the findings, among the 15.3% of respondents who reported current marijuana use, the majority used multiple routes. Specifically, smoking accounted for 79.4%, eating for 41.6%, vaping for 30.3%, and dabbing for 14.6%. Notably, among young adults aged 18 to 24, vaping and dabbing emerged as the most common methods of use.

Dabbing involves inhaling heated concentrated cannabis, which delivers high levels of THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana. Vaping, on the other hand, involves inhaling vaporized cannabis extracts or oils, which can sometimes contain contaminants or adulterants. Ingestion through edibles offers a different experience and risk profile, such as delayed effects and potential exposure to high concentrations of THC.

The researchers emphasize that these varying routes of administration carry distinct health risks. For instance, vaping may expose users to harmful contaminants, while ingestion can lead to unexpectedly intense psychoactive effects. These insights are critical for developing targeted educational messages that address the specific risks associated with each method.

Overall, understanding the preferred methods of marijuana consumption among different age groups and demographics can inform public health strategies aimed at reducing potential harms associated with use. Future messaging and prevention efforts can thus be tailored to the most common practices identified in this study.