More than half of U.S. adults have either consumed cannabis or want to try cannabis for the first time, according to a new report by cannabis business intelligence company New Frontier Data. The report provides insight into the evolving attitudes and perceptions towards cannabis in the United States.

A survey conducted in April 2023 is part of the report. It found that 57% of U.S. adults have either used cannabis in the past or are interested in trying it. Of those surveyed, 42% reported having tried cannabis before, while an additional 15% reported being interested in trying it in the future.

“Cannabis consumers are diverse with users spread across age groups, genders, economic brackets and political affiliations,” Gary Allen, New Frontier Data CEO, said in a news release about the report. “With 42% of U.S. adults having used cannabis and likely to do so again, and another 15% expressing interest in trying cannabis in the future, acceptance and receptiveness continues to grow, creating massive opportunities in both new and emerging markets.”

Americans Want to Try Cannabis For the First Time

Of the 42% of people who have used cannabis in the past, the survey found that 37% are current customers. They include those who have tried cannabis for the first time and now use it at least annually and plan to use cannabis again in the future.

Other findings from the report include:

• The frequency of cannabis use among current consumers does not vary significantly by home state market type (adult use, medical use, or not legal for either).
• Among current consumers, 37% increased cannabis consumption in the last year.
• 70% of current consumers say cannabis helps them achieve a specific objective.
• 53% of current consumers describe using cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes.
• 51% of self-identified medical consumers say they replace some prescription medications with cannabis.

Issues Around the Increase in Cannabis Use

The report underscores the need for education and awareness around safe and responsible cannabis use. With more individuals trying cannabis for the first time, it is crucial that they are equipped with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed buying decisions in the cannabis marketplace.

The report also has implications for the cannabis industry, which has experienced explosive growth in recent years. With more than half of U.S. adults expressing interest in trying cannabis, there is a vast and growing market for cannabis products. However, as with any emerging industry, there are challenges to be addressed, such as regulation, quality control, and advertising restrictions.

As more individuals express interest in wanting to try cannabis for the first time, it is important to equip them with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed decisions about cannabis use. By continuing to educate and raise awareness around safe and responsible cannabis use, people can enjoy the many health and wellness benefits of cannabis and cannabis products.