A. Regardless of your personal views on the subject, use of the drug is more prevalent than ever and we must address the issue when it arises during the life insurance application and underwriting process.
What Is Cannabis?Cannabis is a natural psychoactive drug that comes from the flowers and leaves of the hemp/marijuana plant. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary ingredient in cannabis that causes euphoria and intoxication. Cannabis is most commonly smoked as a cigarette or in a pipe. It can also be taken orally, either by eating it directly or mixing it with food products.
Short-term memory, attention, motor skills reaction time, and skilled activities are impaired while the individual is intoxicated. Cannabis contains carcinogens, and evidence suggests that heavy use may be associated with oral cavity, pharynx, esophageal, and lung cancers. Because of those concerns, many carriers will assign smoker/tobacco use rates for any use.
In our next blogpost, we will discuss underwriting considerations when it comes to marijuana or cannabis use.