Cannabis Addiction Might Be in Your Genes, New Study Finds

Cannabis, like alcohol and caffeine, is a drug that can become addicting if you let it get out of control. Many Americans face cannabis use disorder every day, and if you're one of those people, it turns out you might have a genetic predisposition to it.

A new study just published in the Nature Genetics journal examined hundreds of thousands of study subjects from around the world and identified genes that could be linked to cannabis use disorder. In addition, some of the same regions where the genome was found are also associated with other health conditions such as lung cancer and schizophrenia.

These connections likely aren't a fluke. Study lead author Daniel Levey said that the new research should be a promising sign that more discoveries about cannabis addiction are waiting to be made.

"Once we understand the biology of cannabis use disorder, we can better understand associated disorders and inform the public of risks associated with marijuana use,” Levey said in a statement.

While there have been studies in the past that have suggested a genetic component in cannabis use disorder, the new study is the first of its kind to look at various ethnic groups. It also pulled information from the Million Veteran Program genetic database, helping give insight on how it has affected service members over the years.

"This is the largest genome-wide study of cannabis use disorder ever conducted," study co-author Joel Gelertner said. "As more states legalize or decriminalize the use of marijuana, such studies can help us to understand the public health risks that accompany its increased use."

If you or someone you know is struggling with cannabis use disorder, SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.