Genomic analysis uncovers gene variants linked to cannabis use disorder, other ailments

New Delhi, Nov 21 (PTI) A genomic analysis of more than one million people in the US has found dozens of genetic variants associated with a heightened risk of developing cannabis use disorder.

These genetic variants were also associated with a range of behavioural and health issues arising from the disorder, including developing lung cancer, the study led by Yale University found.

Previous studies have shown that roughly one-third of people using cannabis, or marijuana, develop cannabis use disorder, defined as a problematic pattern of cannabis use leading to clinically significant health impairment or distress. Cannabis consists of the dried leaves of the hemp plant and is smoked or chewed for euphoric effect.