Q: How many young people use cannabis?
Cannabis, currently a class C drug, is the most commonly used illegal substance in the UK. Figures from the Department of Health show that 10 per cent of 11- to 15-year-olds reported using cannabis in 2006 and the separate British Crime Survey study, Drug Misuse Declared, found 20 per cent of 16- to 24-year-olds use the substance. Cannabis use in the UK is high compared with many European countries, although its use is declining and has been for some time.
Q: Why do young people take it and what are the short-term effects?
The majority use it simply because they enjoy it. But, for some users, cannabis can provide an escape from difficult emotions caused by problems at school or personal relationships.
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