Understanding how cannabis legalization affects teen cannabis use and health issues

Assessing the Impact of Cannabis Legalization on Adolescent Cannabis Use and Cannabis-Related Health Conditions

NIH-funded research Kaiser Foundation Research Institute · NIH-11034142

This study looks at how legalizing recreational cannabis affects young people aged 12 to 20, focusing on their cannabis use and health, by analyzing data from nearly a million teens in Northern California.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionKaiser Foundation Research Institute NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oakland, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11034142 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of recreational cannabis legalization on cannabis use and related health conditions among adolescents aged 12 to 20. By analyzing data from nearly 1 million adolescents in Kaiser Permanente Northern California, the study aims to determine how legalization and local regulations influence cannabis use patterns and health outcomes. The research employs a quasi-experimental design to assess changes in cannabis use, cannabis-related health issues, and healthcare utilization following legalization. It also explores the effects of local cannabis policies on these outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are part of the Kaiser Permanente Northern California healthcare system.

Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12 to 20 or those not enrolled in the Kaiser Permanente Northern California system may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable insights into the health implications of cannabis legalization for adolescents, potentially guiding public health policies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that cannabis legalization can impact usage patterns and health outcomes, suggesting that this study's approach is relevant and timely.

Where this research is happening

Oakland, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions addictive disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.