Cannabis and Health

Short- and long-term health impacts based on age, type of use, pregnancy, medical use, and other factors that influence health outcomes from cannabis.

• Short-Term Effects of Cannabis Consumption
  The short-term effects of cannabis use can be felt within seconds to minutes if you are smoking, vaporizing, or dabbing cannabis. These effects can last up to 24 hours. ...read more
   
• Long-Term Health Impacts
  New research studying the long-term health impacts of cannabis use continues to be published. ...read more
   
• Youth and Young Adults
  Use of impairing substances, including cannabis, is of particular concern when it comes to adolescents and young adults due to the potential impact on brain development. ...read more
   
• Pregnancy or Breastfeeding Impacts
  It is recommended that cannabis use be discontinued during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Physical evidence shows that THC can pass through the placenta from the mother to the unborn child. ...read more
   
• Secondhand Smoke
  Cannabis smoke contains many of the same cancer-causing chemicals as tobacco smoke. Burning any plant material releases toxic chemicals and fine particles that can go deep into the lungs. ...read more
   
• Use for Medical Purposes
  The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) oversees the state’s medical cannabis program. Conditions that qualify for obtaining medical cannabis authorization from a medical provider ...read more