Compton, W. M., Einstein, E. B., & Han, B. (2024). 12-month Prevalence Estimates of Substance Use Disorders Using DSM-5 Versus DSM-IV Criteria Among U.S. Nonelderly Adults With Substance Use. American Journal of Psychiatry, 181(11), 1018–1021. DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.20231060
Rationale: For the first time in recent history, more people are using cannabis than alcohol on a daily or near daily basis.
Method: Researchers assessed the prevalence of Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) among a diverse population of more than 50,000 Americans aged 18-64 over a 12-month period.
Results: Of people who use addictive substances, the percentage of individuals who suffer with CUD is greater than those with other addictions. In 2021, the 12-month prevalence of cannabis use disorder in those using cannabis was 30.9%.
The rates among users of other drugs was lower: 27.9% of cocaine users, 22.7% of opioid users, and 18.7% of regular drinkers met criteria for disordered substance use or addiction.
Meaning: About 1/3 of cannabis users show evidence of a cannabis use disorder. The disorder is marked by symptoms like tolerance, craving, and harmful life consequences.