246. Dr. Daniel Myran | Public Health Research on Pot

246. Dr. Daniel Myran | Public Health Research on Pot

High Truths on Drugs and Addiction

Canada is number one in marijuana consumption and is also producing large population based public heath research on pot. Dr. Daniel Myran is a public health and preventative medicine physician, a family physician and researcher. He holds a Canada Research Chair in Social Accountability at the University of Ottawa and is an assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine. He practices family medicine with an interest in addiction medicine.  Dr. Myran’s research uses health administrative data to track healthcare visits for mental health and substance use at the population level and investigate the impact of alcohol and drug policy including the legalization of non-medical cannabis on these outcomes. His work also focuses on understanding risks and downstream health outcomes associated with substance use disorders.  Dr. Myran's publications can be found here. Disclaimer:  The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the speaker and do not necessarily represent the views, policies, or positions of the United States Government or any of its agencies. The content was recorded prior to the speaker's current federal service and is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.  No agency endorsement or approval should be inferred.

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51:308 Sept 2025

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Marijuana Consumption: Health Impacts and Policy Challenges

Episode Overview

  • Dr. Myran explores Canada's leading role in marijuana consumption.
  • He examines the effects of decriminalisation versus legalisation.
  • Cannabis use is linked to increased anxiety and schizophrenia.
  • His research faces criticism from both political spectrums.
  • The importance of delaying substance use until brain maturity.
There's no quick fix to the opioid epidemic; it's a wicked policy problem needing diverse measures.

How can compelling narratives motivate and inspire others? This episode of High Truths on Drugs and Addiction features Dr. Daniel Myran, a public health researcher from Canada, who dives into the nitty-gritty of marijuana consumption and its impact on public health. As Canada tops the charts in marijuana use, Dr. Myran's research provides a fascinating look at how drug policies influence healthcare visits related to mental health and substance use.

He shares his insights on decriminalisation versus legalisation, highlighting the effects on police encounters and health outcomes. Dr. Myran's work doesn't shy away from controversy, as he navigates the political landscape that often challenges his findings. He discusses the potential health risks associated with cannabis use, including increased anxiety disorders, dementia diagnoses, and even schizophrenia. With a sprinkle of humour, Dr. Myran reflects on the joys of fatherhood amidst his prolific research career.

Listeners are treated to a thought-provoking discussion about the implications of drug policies and their societal impacts. The episode is a goldmine for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of substance use and its regulation. So, what do you think? Is legalisation the right path forward, or does it bring more harm than good?

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