Cannabis & Schizophrenia A causal link? with Deepak D'Souza, MD

In this episode, Dr. Deepak D'Souza, a renowned psychiatrist from Yale University, discusses the complex relationship between cannabis and psychosis. He explores the potential causal links, the role of environmental factors, and the implications of cannabis-induced psychosis as a precursor to schizophrenia. The conversation delves into the evolving landscape of cannabis potency and its impact on mental health, drawing parallels with historical public health challenges like smoking and lung cancer.Takeaways• Cannabis can induce transient psychotic symptoms during intoxication.• Cannabis-induced psychosis may be a precursor to schizophrenia.• Environmental factors, like cannabis use, can impact schizophrenia risk.• Cannabis potency has increased, affecting psychosis rates.• Cannabis is a modifiable risk factor for mental health disorders.• Not everyone who uses cannabis develops psychosis.• Cannabis use during adolescence may increase schizophrenia risk.• Genetic predisposition plays a role in cannabis-related psychosis.• Cannabis and schizophrenia have a complex, multifactorial relationship.• Preventing cannabis use in youth could reduce schizophrenia cases.Chapters00:00 - Intro01:19 - Professional Background - Deepak Cyril D'Souza02:29 - Understanding Psychosis and Cannabis03:15 - Background on Schizophrenia05:06 - Symptoms of Psychosis vs. Psychotic Disorders, Causality10:31 - Cannabis Induced Psychosis12:28 - Causality: Cannabis and Schizophrenia | The Bradford Hill Criteria for Causality23:20 - The Role of Genetics and Environment29:30 - Risk Factors Associated with Schizophrenia 32:29 - Advice for Healthcare Providers and Families