New Clarity on THC "Standard Unit" Could Help Public Health
New study suggests using a standard unit for cannabis, like alcohol. This could help reduce harm in the legal cannabis market
While the measurement of milligrams of THC exists, it does not clarify the quality of the cannabis. This uncertainty makes it hard for users to monitor their intake and for doctors to assess risks accurately.
Researchers believe they have a solution. A new study from the University of Bath suggests using a standard unit for cannabis, similar to how we measure alcohol. Instead of just counting weight or frequency, the study measured cannabis use in standardised THC units. This change could help people reduce harm as legal cannabis becomes more common.
Tom Freeman from the University of Bath stated, “As cannabis becomes easier to access, we need to help consumers make informed choices about their use.”
The main issue has always been the strength of cannabis. Today's cannabis is much stronger than it was in the past, and THC levels can vary widely between products. Two joints may look similar but deliver very different amounts of THC. Higher THC levels can lead to a greater risk of cannabis use disorder and mental health issues, which the researchers stressed in their paper.
What is Classed as too much THC?
Using data from the CannTeen study, which followed 150 cannabis users in London for a year, the researchers converted reported use into standardised THC units. The results showed significant differences. One joint made from high-potency cannabis can contain over three times the THC of a joint made with lower-potency cannabis. Just counting how often people use cannabis does not convey the full risk.
The researchers found a clear limit. Adults who consume more than eight THC units each week are much more likely to show signs of cannabis use disorder. About 70 per cent of those who exceeded that limit met the criteria for CUD.
“Our goal is to reduce harm,” said lead author Rachel Lees Thorne from the University of Bath. She noted that while abstaining from cannabis is the safest option, standardised THC units can help people choose weaker products or cut back on their use more easily. Public health experts generally support this idea. A common measurement could help improve research and provide doctors with a clearer way to discuss use with their patients.
However, there are limitations. Marta Di Forti from King’s College London pointed out that cannabis contains over 140 cannabinoids, not just THC. Nonetheless, she considered THC units a necessary and important starting point.
The research aims to clarify cannabis use, not regulate it. As more areas legalise cannabis, this clarity could ultimately benefit public health more than vague advice ever has.
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Liz Filmer
