Increasing cannabis use among U.S. Adults: Greater growth among historically lower-use groups, BRFSS 2016-2024.

Merrill R.; Edvalson B.; Crockett E. · Addictive behaviors · 2026

**Background & Methods** This population-based observational study analyzed Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data from 2016-2024 to assess trends in cannabis use among U.S. adults. Estimated annual percent change (EAPC) was calculated using log-linear regression, with survey-weighted logistic and linear regression models examining demographic correlates and frequency of use patterns across subgroups. **Key Findings** • Overall past 30-day cannabis use increased 8.5% annually (95% CI, 5.7%-11.4%) from 2016-2024, with larger relative increases observed among historically lower-use groups including older adults, women, married/cohabitating individuals, college-educated individuals, never smokers, and residents of jurisdictions with illegal or medical-only cannabis status. • Among current users, mean days of cannabis use were significantly lower in older adults, women, students, higher educational attainment individuals, non-heavy drinkers, never smokers, and overweight/obese individuals; frequency of use increased over time across all demographic groups. • Age was the only demographic characteristic that significantly modified temporal trends in frequency of use (p < 0.01), with significant increases in use frequency observed across all age groups during the study period. **Dosage & Administration** Not reported. **Safety & Adverse Effects** Not reported. **Evidence Quality** This study provides moderate-quality evidence based on a large, nationally representative sample with 8-year longitudinal data. Key limitations include reliance on self-reported survey data, inability to assess causality due to observational design, and lack of information regarding cannabis potency, consumption methods, or clinical outcomes. The BRFSS captures only past 30-day use, potentially underestimating overall prevalence. Strengths include population-based design, standardized data collection, and assessment of demographic subgroup patterns. The findings reflect broad epidemiological trends but do not establish mechanistic relationships between legalization, risk perception, availability, and use patterns. Clinical applicability is limited to public health surveillance rather than individual patient management.

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