California Teens Perceive Cannabis as Less Harmful Than Alcohol or Vapes

Story Summary
A study of over 175,000 California students from 2019–2020 and 2024 reveals adolescents consistently rate cannabis as safer than alcohol, vapes, and cigarettes. Perceived harm declines with age and increases with peer usage, raising public health concerns despite declining overall use rates. Researchers recommend updated education strategies addressing specific cannabis risks amid shifting social norms.





