Final answer:
Marijuana can stay detectable in the body for up to 30 days in regular users, with several long-term health risks associated with its use. The legality of marijuana varies across states, with it still being illegal under federal law.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Long Can Marijuana Stay in the Body?
After smoking marijuana, the active chemicals in the drug, such as THC, can remain in the body for varying durations depending on several factors such as frequency of use, body fat content, and metabolism. Generally, THC can be detected in urine for up to 30 days after cessation in regular users. For less frequent users, marijuana may be detectable for several days to a week.
In the long term, marijuana use can lead to health issues including impaired brain development in those who start using as teenagers, respiratory problems from smoking, and potential developmental problems in children if used during pregnancy. Therefore, even after the immediate effects of altered senses, mood changes, and cognitive difficulties subside, there could be lasting health consequences.
The legal landscape around marijuana has shifted significantly, with varying degrees of decriminalization and legalization occurring across different states. Nonetheless, under federal law, marijuana is still classified as a Schedule 1 drug.