A recent Gallup poll has revealed that Americans increasingly view marijuana as less harmful than alcohol, tobacco, and nicotine vapes. The survey highlights a significant shift in public perception, with more adults now smoking cannabis than cigarettes.
Among the eight commonly used substances surveyed, marijuana was perceived as the least harmful. Despite this, 66 percent of respondents still believe that cannabis use is somewhat or very harmful, while 32 percent feel it is not too harmful or completely harmless.
In stark contrast, 86 percent of respondents consider alcohol to be very or somewhat harmful, with only 8 percent seeing it as relatively benign. Vaping e-cigarettes was viewed as even more dangerous, with 91 percent agreeing it is harmful. The overwhelming majority—97 percent—believe traditional cigarettes are harmful, with just one percent dissenting.
This perception aligns with the declining rates of cigarette smoking, which dropped to an all-time low of 11 percent in 2022, maintaining that level in 2024 after a brief increase. Meanwhile, 13 percent of Americans report smoking marijuana, and 11 percent use cannabis edibles. Despite the perception of alcohol as more harmful, 58 percent of respondents say they still occasionally drink alcohol.
The poll also found that while opinions on marijuana's effects are mixed, slim majorities believe it has a negative impact on society (54 percent) and users (51 percent). This represents a slight increase in concern compared to 2022. Interestingly, several demographic groups, including those who have tried marijuana, young adults aged 18-34, Democrats, and those who seldom or never attend religious services, are more likely to believe marijuana has a positive effect on users.