A recent shift in public opinion indicates that more Americans are viewing marijuana as a safer alternative to alcohol. According to a YouGov survey, a majority of participants believe that marijuana is less harmful than alcohol. This change reflects a growing acceptance of cannabis, which has transitioned from being associated with laziness to being recognized by respected organizations such as AARP and the Food and Drug Administration.
The medical benefits of marijuana play a significant role in this perception. Emerging research and patient testimonials highlight its therapeutic advantages, including relief from pain, nausea, and anxiety. Cannabis is also noted for helping manage conditions like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn’s disease. These benefits are encouraging many to consider marijuana a viable alternative to opioids for pain management.
The YouGov poll, which surveyed nearly 20,000 American adults, revealed that 58% of respondents find regular alcohol use more harmful than regular marijuana use. This belief crosses political lines, with 64% of Democrats, 59% of independents, and 52% of Republicans agreeing that alcohol poses greater health risks than marijuana.
When comparing the health impacts of both substances, marijuana is consistently viewed as the safer option. Alcohol overdose claims tens of thousands of lives each year, while there has never been a recorded case of a fatal marijuana overdose. Additionally, marijuana appears to have neuroprotective properties, contrasting with alcohol’s known damage to brain cells.
Furthermore, marijuana is reported to be less addictive than alcohol. While alcohol can lead to severe physical withdrawal symptoms, marijuana has a much lower potential for addiction. Alcohol is also strongly linked to increased risks of injury and violence, a connection that marijuana does not share.
This changing perspective is already influencing consumer habits, with more than half of marijuana users indicating they drink less alcohol or stop drinking altogether after using cannabis.
