How Does Cannabis Use Affect Brain Function?

How Does Cannabis Use Affect Brain Function?

Author: University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus March 24, 2025 Duration: 28:43

As a teenager, Joshua Gowin, PhD, remembers sitting through DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) classes and watching those frying pan-focused public service announcements: “This is your brain on drugs.” Gowin, assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, is the lead author on a recent study published in JAMA Network Open that explored the effects of both recent and lifetime cannabis use on brain function during cognitive tasks, including working memory. The study is the largest of its kind, examining the effects of cannabis use on over 1,000 young adults aged 22 to 36 using brain imaging technology. What were the study’s findings and where is Gowin’s research headed next? Listen to this episode of Health Science Radio to find out.


Ever wondered how the arcane world of quantum computing might one day reshape your doctor's visit, or what ancient evolutionary paths still dictate what you crave for dinner? Health Science Radio digs into these fascinating intersections, bringing the frontier of medical research directly to your ears. Produced by the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, this series is built on conversations with the scientists and clinicians themselves-the people in the labs and clinics dedicated to untangling health's most complex puzzles. Each episode feels like a direct line to the cutting edge, whether the topic is a breakthrough in gene therapy, a new understanding of metabolic health, or the real-world application of fitness science. You’ll hear thoughtful discussions that translate dense, specialized research into compelling stories about human well-being. This isn't just a summary of news headlines; it's a deep dive into the process of discovery. Tuning into this podcast offers a unique opportunity to listen as experts explain not only what they are discovering, but why it matters for our lives now and in the future. It’s for anyone curious about the science behind a healthier life, presented with the authority and clarity that comes straight from a leading academic medical center.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 54

Health Science Radio
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