A national pediatrician group has issued a new warning about marijuana dangers. This warning follows a report showing that over 40% of drivers who die in crashes test positive for active delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the drug’s psychoactive ingredient.
The American College of Pediatricians (ACPeds) published an updated position paper titled “Marijuana Use: Detrimental to Youth.” In it, they highlight impaired driving as one of many marijuana harms. These harms also include addiction, poor school performance, and higher risk of mental illness.
Dr. Jill Simons, ACPeds executive director, said, “Marijuana use impairs driving performance. It is among the many serious adverse effects — including addiction, poor school performance, and increased mental illness risk.”
Potency and Accessibility Raising Risks
In its statement, the group cited emerging research linking early marijuana use to increased risks of cognitive impairment, depression, and addiction. The warning comes as more U.S. states continue to legalize recreational and medical cannabis, raising concerns about youth accessibility and shifting perceptions of the drug’s safety.
“Clear and convincing evidence exists that cannabis use is harmful, especially for adolescents and for pregnant women and their children. It is neither beneficial nor benign,” said Dr. Robert Hoffman, the College’s president and lead author of the October 2025 advisory. “Parents and educators need to understand that today’s marijuana products, especially edibles and vapes, are far more potent than those used decades ago, and their impact on the developing brain can be profound and lasting.”
Academic Performance and Addiction Concerns
Additionally, doctors with the College noted that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in marijuana, can interfere with memory, attention, and learning — with stronger potencies associated with greater harm. They emphasized particular concern over edibles and vaping products, which can contain high concentrations of THC and are often marketed in ways appealing to younger audiences.
The warning also pointed to studies suggesting regular marijuana use during adolescence is linked to higher risk of psychosis, poorer academic performance, and an increased likelihood of dependency. Pediatricians urged lawmakers to adopt stricter regulations on advertising, packaging, and sales, along with funding more education campaigns targeted at teens.
“Parents need to know that this is not the marijuana of decades past,” the College stated. “Today’s products are more potent, more available, and more dangerous to developing minds.”
The findings show a clear need to change how society views cannabis use. Legalizing recreational marijuana has made the drug more accessible and normalized. However, the dangers of impaired driving remain. Many people still drive soon after using cannabis. They often ignore or underestimate how THC affects their coordination, reaction time, and decision-making. Higher THC levels reduce cognitive control and increase crash risks. This worsens public safety problems.
