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Abstract
Cannabis is the most commonly used recreational drug in the United States and use among adolescents is prevalent. Its availability and potency have increased significantly in the past decade, as a growing number of US states have legalized its use for medicinal or recreational purposes. Meanwhile, adolescent perception of the risk of harm from cannabis use has declined over time. However, there are well-established risks associated with prolonged cannabis use in adolescence. Cannabis has a strong link to the development of psychosis and psychiatric diagnoses, negative neurodevelopmental and school performance outcomes, poorer sleep, and gastrointestinal effects. Research is also showing potential risks related to the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and endocrine systems. The purpose of this article is to describe the long-term health effects of adolescent cannabis use.