Most young cannabis smokers give up by 22
A study has shown that only seven per cent of young cannabis smokers maintain their habit beyond 22 years old.
Most young people who use just cannabis either switch to tobacco (28 per cent) or give up totally (49 per cent).
The aim of the Lausanne University Hospital study was to determine how the smoking habits of the 16-22 age group developed.
One of its purposes was to find out whether cannabis users turned to other substances, for instance alcohol, upon giving up.
The main change in cannabis usage often takes place at the age of about 20 years old. Researchers said this was mainly due to the end of adolescence and the beginning of professional life.
Joan-Carles Surís, who heads the research group on adolescent health at the Social and Preventive Medecine Institute explained: “ There is a change that takes place at 20-21 years old, be it positive or negative”.
He added that this was the transitional period on which prevention has to focus in the future.
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