Regular users are fewer. Cannabis use peaks between the ages of 20-24 years and use is higher among males than females. Although experimentation with cannabis has increased in recent years, regular users remain a small minority. All drug use carries risk of harm to the user and for others who may be affected by the user's behaviour. Cannabis users face risks due to intoxication, and physical and psychological harm, especially with heavy or long-term use.
Cannabis intoxication leads to reduced concentration, slower reflexes and coordination.
Driving cars or operating machinery become more dangerous. It is suspected that heavy use can induce schizophrenic episodes. Nearly half of young people have tried cannabis before they leave secondary school. Experimentation with cannabis does not indicate the person has a particular problem. Adolescence is a time of experimentation with many behaviours, one of which may be drug use.