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North C, Arora S, Nathan Marti C, Thomas JE, Pasch KE, Wilkinson AV, Loukas A. Prevalence and socio-demographic correlates of multi-modal cannabis use among young adults who currently use cannabis. Prev Med Rep 2024; 43:102775. [PMID: 38873660 PMCID: PMC11170176 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabis use is common in young adulthood, yet little is known about the prevalence and patterns of multi-modal (i.e., use of more than one mode) cannabis use. Objective We aimed to (1) determine the past 30-day prevalence of five modes (smoke, vape, edible, dab, other) of cannabis use, (2) describe the prevalence of multi-modal cannabis use (single vs. dual vs. poly-modal), and (3) identify socio-demographic correlates of multi-modal use among young adults. Method Participants were 764 22-30-year-olds who currently used cannabis from Wave 9 (Spring 2019) of the Marketing and Promotions Across Colleges in Texas Project. Participants were 25.11 years old on average (SD = 1.81), 63.6% female, 38.7% identified as non-Hispanic white, 30.6% as Hispanic/Latino, 13.0% as Asian and 9.4% as Black, and 8.2% identified with two or more races or another race/ethnicity. Bivariate analyses and a multinomial regression were used to examine study questions. Results Smoking was the most common mode of cannabis use followed by vaping and then edibles. Nearly 43% of participants reported single-modal cannabis use, 33% reported dual-modal use, and 24% reported poly-modal use. Males and those identifying as non-heterosexual were at a greater risk than their counterparts for using multiple modes of cannabis. Participants identifying as Black were at a reduced risk for poly-modal compared to single-modal use. Conclusion Multi-modal use is common among young adults who currently use cannabis, indicating a need for universal efforts aimed at all young adults. Tailored interventions aimed toward those at elevated risk for multi-modal use also are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline North
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, 2100 San Jacinto Blvd D3700, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Srishty Arora
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, 2100 San Jacinto Blvd D3700, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - C. Nathan Marti
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, 2100 San Jacinto Blvd D3700, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Jacob E. Thomas
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, 2100 San Jacinto Blvd D3700, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Keryn E. Pasch
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, 2100 San Jacinto Blvd D3700, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| | - Anna V. Wilkinson
- Department of Epidemiology, UTHealth Houston, School of Public Health, 1616 Guadalupe Street, Suite 6.300, Austin, TX 78701, USA
| | - Alexandra Loukas
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, The University of Texas at Austin, 2100 San Jacinto Blvd D3700, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
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Kunchay S, Linden-Carmichael AN, Abdullah S. Using a Smartwatch App to Understand Young Adult Substance Use: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study. JMIR Hum Factors 2024; 11:e50795. [PMID: 38901024 PMCID: PMC11224702 DOI: 10.2196/50795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adults in the United States exhibit some of the highest rates of substance use compared to other age groups. Heavy and frequent substance use can be associated with a host of acute and chronic health and mental health concerns. Recent advances in ubiquitous technologies have prompted interest and innovation in using technology-based data collection instruments to understand substance use and associated harms. Existing methods for collecting granular, real-world data primarily rely on the use of smartphones to study and understand substance use in young adults. Wearable devices, such as smartwatches, show significant potential as platforms for data collection in this domain but remain underused. OBJECTIVE This study aims to describe the design and user evaluation of a smartwatch-based data collection app, which uses ecological momentary assessments to examine young adult substance use in daily life. METHODS This study used a 2-phase iterative design and acceptability evaluation process with young adults (aged 18-25 y) reporting recent alcohol or cannabis use. In phase 1, participants (8/15, 53%) used the data collection app for 14 days on their Apple Watches to report their substance use patterns, social contexts of substance use, and psychosocial risk factors (eg, affect). After this 14-day deployment, the participants completed a user experience survey and a semistructured interview to record their perspectives and experiences of using the app. Formative feedback from this phase informed feature modification and refinement of the app. In phase 2, an additional cohort (7/15, 47%) used the modified app for 14 days and provided feedback through surveys and interviews conducted after the app use period. RESULTS Analyses of overall app use patterns indicated high, consistent use of the app, with participants using the app for an average of 11.73 (SD 2.60) days out of 14 days of data collection. Participants reported 67 instances of substance use throughout the study, and our analysis indicates that participants were able to respond to ecological momentary assessment prompts in diverse temporal and situational contexts. Our findings from the user experience survey indicate that participants found the app usable and functional. Comparisons of app use metrics and user evaluation scores indicate that the iterative app design had a measurable and positive impact on users' experience. Qualitative data from the participant interviews highlighted the value of recording substance use patterns, low disruption to daily life, minimal overall burden, preference of platforms (smartphones vs smartwatches), and perspectives relating to privacy and app use in social contexts. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the acceptability of using a smartwatch-based app to collect intensive, longitudinal substance use data among young adults. The findings document the utility of smartwatches as a novel platform to understand sensitive and often-stigmatized behaviors such as substance use with minimal burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahiti Kunchay
- College of Information Sciences and Technology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Ashley N Linden-Carmichael
- Edna Bennett Pierce Prevention Research Center, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Saeed Abdullah
- College of Information Sciences and Technology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
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Grigsby TJ, Lopez A, Guo Y. Development and preliminary validation of the positive consequences of cannabis (PCOC) scale. Addict Behav 2024; 152:107977. [PMID: 38295608 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.107977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While extensive research exists on the negative consequences of cannabis use, there is a noticeable gap in the literature regarding positive consequences on patterns of cannabis use. The goal of the present study was to develop and test the psychometric properties of a novel scale, the Positive Consequences of Cannabis scale (PCOC) to assess positive outcomes of cannabis use among current adult cannabis users. METHODS Participants (n = 768) were recruited through online platforms. The sample was predominantly non-Hispanic (92.3 %) male (62.92 %) with an average age of 29.08 years (SD = 6.10). A split half validation method was used to assess the factor structure of the PCOC scale. Data analysis also included Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to identify underlying factor structures of the PCOC, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to validate the factor structure, and the assessments of internal consistency and validity. RESULTS The EFA identified a two-factor solution for the PCOC: Social and Psychological Consequences and Cognitive and Motivational Consequences. The CFA confirmed the validity of this factor structure with good model fit (χ2 = 321.33, p < 0.001; CFI = 0.95; TLI = 0.95; RMSEA = 0.038; SRMR = 0.048). Internal consistency coefficients for the PCOC subscales and total scale exceeded acceptable thresholds. A hierarchical regression model showed that both PCOC subscales were significantly associated with cannabis use frequency and quantity. DISCUSSION The development and validation of the PCOC represent a significant advancement in assessing positive consequences in understanding cannabis use patterns, indicating that individuals who experience a range of positive effects are more likely to engage in more frequent and intense cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J Grigsby
- Department of Social and Behavioral Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA.
| | - Andrea Lopez
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA
| | - Ying Guo
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, USA
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Pritschmann RK, Rung JM, Berry MS, Yurasek AM. Independent and concurrent cannabis use with alcohol, cigarettes, and other substances among college students: Rates and consequences. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:1263-1270. [PMID: 35658020 PMCID: PMC9718891 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2076094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine patterns of concurrent cannabis and other substance use and their differential associations with cannabis-related problems and academic outcomes in college students. Participants: Participants were undergraduate students (N = 263; M age = 19.1 years; 61.2% female) who were eligible if they used cannabis at least 3 days in the past month (M = 10.1 days). Method: Substance use, academic-related outcomes, and measures of Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) severity and problems were obtained in an online survey. Results: The five groups evaluated were cannabis-only users (5.3%), cannabis and alcohol (47.1%), cannabis, alcohol and cigarettes (16.7%), cannabis, alcohol and other substances (14.8%), or all-substances (16%). Cannabis-only and all-substance users reported using cannabis most frequently (ps ≤ .034), but only the latter reported greater CUD severity, problems, and poorer academic outcomes. Discussion: College student polysubstance users may be at increased risk for poorer outcomes compared to cannabis-only users and other groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricarda K Pritschmann
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Jillian M Rung
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Meredith S Berry
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Ali M Yurasek
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Guo Y, Dai CL, Ward RM, Mason WA. The Interaction of Cannabis Consumption with Heavy Episodic Drinking and Alcohol-induced Blackouts in Relation to Cannabis Use Consequences Among Recent Undergraduate College Cannabis Users. CANNABIS (ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) 2024; 6:23-32. [PMID: 38883276 PMCID: PMC11178058 DOI: 10.26828/cannabis/2023/000193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Risky alcohol use patterns, characterized by heavy episodic drinking (HED) and alcohol-induced blackout, are prevalent in college students. However, it is not clear if experiencing HED and blackout among college-attending cannabis users heightens risk for adverse cannabis use consequences. The purpose of this study was to examine whether heavy episodic drinking and blackout episodes moderate the relationship between cannabis consumption and cannabis use consequences among college students. Methods Undergraduate college students (n = 4331) were recruited from a Midwest University in 2021. This analysis used a subset of data from past 6-month cannabis users (n= 772; 17.8% of the full sample). Among cannabis users, 64.5% identified as female and 87.8% were White with an average age of 19.99 (SD=2.88). A linear regression was conducted with two two-way interactions of cannabis consumption and HED frequency as well as cannabis consumption and alcohol-induced blackout episodes. Results Results showed a statistically significant positive association between cannabis consumption and cannabis use consequences (B=0.73, p<.001), adjusting for the other variables in the model. Blackout, but not HED, was a significant moderator (B=0.19, p=.003). Discussion The findings of this study indicate that blackout experiences amplify the relationship between cannabis use and cannabis-related consequences among college students. This underscores that blackouts not only signal a risk of problematic drinking but also exacerbate the association between cannabis use and its negative consequences. Conclusion Findings may inform college campus interventions targeting cannabis and alcohol concurrent-users who experience alcohol-induced blackouts to reduce their additional risk for cannabis-related consequences.
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Smith-LeCavalier KN, Morris PM, Larimer ME, Buckner JD, Walukevich-Dienst K. General and Domain-Specific Perceived Risk Demonstrate Unique Associations with Cannabis Use, Negative Outcomes, and Motivation to Change among Undergraduate Students. CANNABIS (ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) 2024; 6:49-66. [PMID: 38883284 PMCID: PMC11178065 DOI: 10.26828/cannabis/2024/000194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
College student cannabis use is at an all-time high. Although frequent heavy cannabis use is related to cannabis problems, perceived risk of cannabis use is rapidly decreasing. Yet, it is unknown whether specific domains of risk perceptions (general and domain-specific risk, risk to others and personal risk) are related to more cannabis use or related problems. Thus, among 130 undergraduates who reported past-month cannabis use, the present study conducted secondary analyses to test whether, for both perceived risk to others and perceived personal risk: (1) general perceived risk was associated with cannabis-related outcomes (i.e., use, negative consequences, cannabis use disorder (CUD) symptoms, motivation to change), (2) seven specific domains of perceived risk were related to cannabis outcomes, and (3) domain-specific perceived risk was related to cannabis use frequency. General perceived risk to others was negatively associated with cannabis use frequency whereas general perceived personal risk was positively associated with cannabis-related negative consequences, CUD symptoms, and importance and readiness to change. Greater legal and withdrawal/dependence risks were uniquely related to several outcomes (e.g., CUD symptoms). Participants who used cannabis frequently perceived more personal risk in most risk domains and less general risk to others than those who used infrequently. Findings suggest personal risk is an important component to consider when assessing perceived risk of cannabis use and focusing on both general and domain-specific risks may provide valuable insight for future prevention and intervention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mary E. Larimer
- University of Washington, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
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Gray BA, Bolts OL, Fitzke RE, Douglass MA, Pedersen ER, Prince MA. Using Latent Profile Analysis to Examine Cannabis Use Contexts: Associations with Use, Consequences, and Protective Behaviors. Subst Use Misuse 2023; 59:208-217. [PMID: 37846065 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2023.2267112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE College students represent a large portion of the population, and report high rates of cannabis use and related negative outcomes, including interpersonal problems, risky behaviors, or physical dependency. The contexts in which students use cannabis (e.g., at a party, when feeling down or depressed, after a fight with a loved one) likely affect their risk of experiencing consequences. We aimed to discern profiles of cannabis use contexts and compare profiles on use frequency, consequences, and the use of cannabis protective behavioral strategies (PBS). METHOD College students were surveyed regarding their cannabis use contexts, frequency, consequences, and PBS use (n = 265; female = 72.8%). We used Latent Profile Analysis to identify patterns of cannabis use contexts and auxiliary testing to compare profiles on use frequency, consequences, and PBS use. RESULTS Our examination revealed three latent profiles of cannabis use. The Social Use Profile was associated with use in predominantly social/uplifting contexts. The Physical & Emotional Pain Profile was also associated with use in these contexts but was defined by additional use in response to pain. The All Contexts Profile was associated with frequent use in all contexts, including those that were least endorsed by the other profiles. Profiles differed in cannabis use frequency, PBS use, and the number of consequences experienced, such that profiles were more likely to be associated with more frequent cannabis use, higher risk of experiencing use-consequences, and using fewer PBS as the number of use contexts increased across the profiles. CONCLUSIONS The contexts in which people use cannabis are associated with cannabis risk and protection. Prevention and intervention efforts may benefit from considering contexts of cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany A Gray
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Olivia L Bolts
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Reagan E Fitzke
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Southern California; Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Morgan A Douglass
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Eric R Pedersen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Southern California; Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mark A Prince
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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Dunaief RJ, Bravo AJ, Henson JM. Changes in Mental Health Symptoms as a Predictor of Cannabis Coping Motives and Consequences: Examining the Impact of COVID-19 Among College Students. CANNABIS (ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.) 2023; 6:1-8. [PMID: 38035165 PMCID: PMC10683748 DOI: 10.26828/cannabis/2023/000163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Objective Cannabis use is common among college students and many students use cannabis to cope with negative affect. The COVID-19 pandemic was a particularly stressful time for college students. Subsequently, the present study compared college students who reported increases in anxiety/depression symptoms since COVID-19 stay at home orders to those who reported no change in anxiety/depression symptoms on cannabis coping motives, use frequency, and negative consequences. Specifically, we examined whether self-reported changes (i.e., group that indicated increases) in poor mental health during COVID-19 were associated with problematic cannabis use via higher cannabis coping motives. Method College students (analytic n = 291) completed an online survey for research credit regarding their personal mental health, COVID-19 stressors, and cannabis use behaviors. Results Individuals who reported increased depressive symptoms (57.4% of the current sample) due to COVID-19 (as compared to individuals whose depressive symptoms remained the same) reported significantly higher cannabis coping motives (d = .79) as well as more cannabis consequences (d = .37). Further, students who reported increased (61.5% of the current sample) anxiety symptoms (as compared to those whose anxiety symptoms stayed the same) also reported significantly higher cannabis coping motives (d = .47). Moreover, we found that students who reported an increase in depressive/anxiety symptoms reported more cannabis consequences via higher endorsement of cannabis coping motives while controlling for gender, cannabis use frequency, and past-week anxiety/depressive symptoms. Discussion Providing resources for substance-free coping strategies to manage the mental health impact of COVID-19 may be extremely useful for this population.
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Mian MN, Foti TR, Green A, Iturralde E, Altschuler A, Does MB, Jackson-Morris M, Adams SR, Satre DD, Ansley D, Young-Wolff KC. Exploring preferences for different modes of cannabis use during early pregnancy: A qualitative study. Addict Behav 2023; 146:107812. [PMID: 37490827 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rates of prenatal cannabis use are rising, yet little is known about modes of cannabis use during pregnancy. This focus group study with pregnant individuals aimed to examine use patterns and perceptions regarding common modes of prenatal cannabis use. METHOD Kaiser Permanente Northern California pregnant adult patients who identified as White or Black and self-reported cannabis use during pregnancy were recruited to participate (N = 53; 40% Black, 60% White; Meanage = 30.3, SD = 5.2). Eighteen focus groups with race-concordant facilitators followed a semi-structured format that queried participants on their prenatal cannabis use, including preferred modes of use (e.g., vapes, blunts, dabs, joints, edibles, topicals, pipes). Focus group discussions were coded and analyzed using a general inductive approach. RESULTS A range of modes were preferred, with no single mode predominant. Participants' preferences aligned with four themes: perceived effects and benefits of cannabis, health and safety, convenience and familiarity, and partner and friend influences. Participants sought modes that were accessible and familiar, provided consistent and quick relief for pregnancy-related symptoms, were aligned with partners or friends, and minimized perceived risks while also providing symptom relief. Participants desired evidence-based information about mode safety to better inform mode selection during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS A range of personal and social factors influenced mode preferences during pregnancy. Many participants desired to reduce harms and use cannabis more safely in pregnancy but received little mode-specific information to guide these preferences. Further research identifying mode-specific risks is needed to guide harm reduction approaches during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha N Mian
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States.
| | - Tara R Foti
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, United States
| | - Andrea Green
- Early Start Program, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Esti Iturralde
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Andrea Altschuler
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Monique B Does
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | | | - Sara R Adams
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Derek D Satre
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Deborah Ansley
- Regional Offices, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States
| | - Kelly C Young-Wolff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Weill Institute for Neurosciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Struble CA, Borodovsky JT, Habib MI, Hasin DS, Shmulewitz D, Livne O, Walsh C, Aharonovich E, Budney AJ. Extending Gender- and Sex-Based Analyses in Cannabis Research: Findings from an Online Sample of Gender Diverse Young Adult Consumers. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023. [PMID: 37594777 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Gender and sex can influence cannabis behaviors and consequences (Cannabis Use Disorder [CUD]). Research typically examines sex and gender independently. Gender analyses often exclude transgender and gender diverse (TGD) populations. The objectives of this study were to (a) replicate less frequent cannabis use among TGD young adults compared to cisgender counterparts (b) compare severity of CUD, and (c) examine the role of sex on cannabis outcomes. Method: Online survey participants between 18 and 34 (N=1213) from the United States who reported past-week cannabis consumption provided information on cannabis practices and CUD from February to April 2022. Bivariate analyses explored gender differences across frequency (daily frequency across routes of administration [ROAs]; daily use of 2+ ROAs, use throughout the day) and CUD. Adjusted regression models provided model-estimated marginal probabilities and means to examine differences across four gender-by-sex categories (cisgender men: n=385; cisgender women: n=681; male-at-birth TGD: n=26; female-at-birth TGD: n=121). Benjamini-Hochberg adjustments (10% false discovery rate) were applied. Results: Among past-week consumers, female-at-birth TGD participants demonstrated lower probability of daily flower smoking compared to cisgender men (0.54 vs. 0.67). Cisgender men reported greater probability of daily concentrate vaping (0.55) compared to cisgender women (0.45) and female-at-birth TGD participants (0.27); they were also more likely to report daily use of 2+ ROAs (cisgender men: 0.51 vs. cisgender women: 0.39 and female at-birth TGD: 0.27). TGD participants reported greater CUD severity compared to cisgender counterparts, t(1096)=-3.69, p=0.002. Model-estimated means found lower severity among cisgender women compared to cisgender men and female-at-birth TGD participants. Stratified regression models support positive associations between daily cannabis use and CUD in both TGD in cisgender groups. Among cisgender participants, greater severity was predicted by male sex, younger age, and younger age of onset. Conclusions: The present study replicates and extends a prior finding that among past-week cannabis consumers, TGD young adults report less frequent use than cisgender counterparts. Despite this, TGD participants demonstrated greater severity of CUD. While analyses were limited by the small sample of male-at-birth TGD participants, the article highlights the importance of expanding sex- and gender-focused analyses. Future work is expanding efforts to target hard-to-reach consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara A Struble
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Jacob T Borodovsky
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Mohammad I Habib
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Deborah S Hasin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Dvora Shmulewitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ofir Livne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Claire Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Alan J Budney
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
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Najera MS, Cavalli JM, Cservenka A. Distress tolerance and problematic cannabis use: does the form of cannabis matter? J Addict Dis 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37565482 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2023.2244378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low distress tolerance may result in greater vulnerability to problematic cannabis use. However, the role of the primary form of cannabis used has not been examined as a moderator of this association. While marijuana flower remains the preferred form of cannabis, the popularity of other forms of cannabis, including concentrates and edibles, is on the rise. OBJECTIVES We examined the association between distress tolerance and problematic cannabis use and whether the primary form of cannabis used moderates this relationship. METHODS Participants were 695 (67.6% male) past-month cannabis users who completed an online survey. Multiple linear regressions assessed whether distress tolerance, the primary form of cannabis used, and their interaction were related to problematic cannabis use while controlling for demographic variables and past 30-day alcohol and cannabis use frequency. RESULTS Lower tolerance for distress was associated with more problematic cannabis use. Endorsing concentrates as the primary form of cannabis used vs. marijuana flower was related to more problematic cannabis use while reporting edibles as the primary form of cannabis used vs. marijuana flower or concentrates was related to less problematic cannabis use. Individuals preferring marijuana flower or concentrates reported more problematic cannabis use at lower levels of distress tolerance. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis users exhibiting low distress tolerance or a preference for concentrates may be at greatest risk for experiencing negative consequences related to their cannabis use. Additionally, building tolerance for stressful situations, among both concentrates and marijuana flower users, may aid in minimizing problematic cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa S Najera
- School of Psychological Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Jessica M Cavalli
- School of Psychological Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Anita Cservenka
- School of Psychological Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
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Alvarez-Roldan A, García-Muñoz T, Gamella JF, Parra I, Duaso MJ. Differentiating people who use cannabis heavily through latent class analysis. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:31. [PMID: 37264404 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00540-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People who use cannabis daily or near-daily vary considerably in their daily dosage and use frequency, impacting both experienced effects and adverse consequences. This study identified heavy cannabis user groups according to consumption patterns and factors associated with class membership. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study of 380 Spanish residents (61.8% male; average age = 30.3 years) who had used cannabis ≥ 3 days/week throughout the past year. Participants were recruited through chain referral and cannabis social clubs. We applied latent class analysis (LCA) to cluster participants according to use intensity. LCA indicators included frequency of weekly cannabis use, joints smoked each day, cannabis dosage, and if cannabis was consumed throughout the day or only at specific times. Associations between class membership and socio-demographics, use patterns, motives, supply sources, adverse outcomes, and use of other substances were measured using ANOVA and chi-squared tests. Multinomial regression identified the factors associated with latent class membership. RESULTS Three latent classes (moderately heavy: 21.8%, heavy: 68.2%, very heavy: 10%) had average weekly cannabis intakes of 2.4, 5.5, and 18.3 g, respectively. Very heavy users were older ([Formula: see text]=17.77, p < 0.01), less educated [Formula: see text]=36.80, p < 0.001), and had used cannabis for longer (F = 4.62, p = 0.01). CAST scores (F = 26.51, p < 0.001) increased across the classes. The prevalence of past-month alcohol use was lower among the heaviest users ([Formula: see text]=5.95, p = 0.05). Cannabis was usually obtained from a club by very heavy users ([Formula: see text]=20.95, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS People who use cannabis heavily present three groups according to frequency and quantity of cannabis consumption. Use intensity is associated with increased cannabis-related problems. Differences among heavy users must be considered in harm reduction interventions in cannabis clubs and indicated prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan F Gamella
- Department of Social Anthropology, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Iván Parra
- Department of Social Anthropology, University of Granada, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Maria J Duaso
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
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13
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Boyle HK, Singh S, López G, Carey KB, Jackson KM, Merrill JE. A qualitative examination of positive and negative consequences young adults experience from simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use. PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS 2023; 37:639-650. [PMID: 36301269 PMCID: PMC10133411 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Alcohol and cannabis are two of the most commonly used substances among young adults, and most individuals who use both substances use them simultaneously, that is, on the same occasion such that their effects overlap. Given the high prevalence of simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use, it is important to understand the relationship between simultaneous use and consequences. This study presents a qualitative examination of positive and negative consequences of simultaneous use. METHOD We conducted individual interviews among 36 young adults who engage in simultaneous use (23 women, 12 men, 1 trans man). Interviews included open-ended questions examining negative and positive consequences of simultaneous use and how simultaneous use differed from single substance use (alcohol only use, cannabis only use). Interviews were analyzed using applied thematic analysis. RESULTS Young adults reported numerous negative and positive consequences of simultaneous use, many overlapping with single substance use. Yet, they also reported unique combinations of positive consequences not experienced by single substance use. Young adults discussed patterns of use that were sometimes approached intentionally (e.g., quantity of substances used, order) that influenced consequences. CONCLUSIONS Together these findings provide further insight into young adults' simultaneous use experiences. Next steps should include quantitative exploratory research to identify and determine the frequency of specific consequences experienced during simultaneous use and examine the relationship between simultaneous use consequences and particular patterns of use. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly K Boyle
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University
| | - Samyukta Singh
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University
| | - Gabriela López
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University
| | - Kate B Carey
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University
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14
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Coelho SG, Wardell JD. Characterizing heterogeneity among people who use cannabis for medicinal reasons: A latent class analysis of a nationally representative Canadian sample. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 117:104076. [PMID: 37247474 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many individuals who use cannabis report doing so for medicinal reasons. Few studies have explored heterogeneity within this population, which may be important to inform targeted interventions. This study used latent class analysis to identify subgroups of people who use cannabis for medicinal reasons and their sociodemographic and cannabis-risk-related correlates. METHOD Data were drawn from the 2019 Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey, which is a representative survey of Canadians ages 15 years and older. Data from 814 individuals reporting past-year use of cannabis for medicinal or mixed medicinal and non-medicinal reasons were included. Latent class analysis was conducted with forms of cannabis used, cannabis use frequency, concurrent non-medicinal cannabis use, and the medical conditions and symptoms cannabis was used to manage as indicators. RESULTS Four distinct latent classes of medicinal cannabis use were identified: a non-daily cannabis flower for mental health and sleep class (39.56% of the sample), a non-daily cannabis flower for pain class (26.41% of the sample), a non-daily cannabis oil for physical health class (20.15% of the sample), and a daily multi-form cannabis for mental health and non-medical reasons class (13.88% of the sample). Sociodemographic factors and risk level for cannabis-related harms were associated with latent class membership. CONCLUSIONS Results of this study reveal considerable heterogeneity among people reporting medicinal cannabis use and suggest that the distinct patterns of cannabis use behaviors and motives observed may be important for understanding risk for cannabis-related harms in this population. Findings underscore a need for harm reduction interventions tailored toward specific patterns of medicinal cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey D Wardell
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
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15
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Bolts OL, Prince MA, Noel NE. Latent profiles of cannabis use, protective behavioral strategies, and health beliefs in college students. Addict Behav 2023; 144:107747. [PMID: 37163888 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
College student cannabis use is prevalent and heterogeneous, with some students experiencing cannabis-related problems. Cannabis protective behavioral strategies (PBS) are cognitive-behavioral strategies associated with reduced cannabis use and problems. There is a need for theory-informed and person-centered research to better understand cannabis PBS. The current study applied the health belief model (HBM) and latent profile analysis to discern patterns of cannabis use, PBS, and health beliefs among college students. Students (n = 164; Mage = 18.8; 53% female) who endorsed past-month cannabis use completed an online survey between September and November 2017. The 3-profile model best fit the data. Profile 1 (24.3%) represents the "infrequent use/high protection" profile characterized by using cannabis about 1-9 times, high PBS use, high perceived threat and benefits, and moderate perceived barriers. Profile 2 (38.1%) represents the "occasional use/moderate protection" profile characterized by using cannabis about 20-59 times, moderate PBS use, moderate perceived threat and benefits, and low perceived barriers. Profile 3 (37.6%) represents the "frequent use/low protection" profile characterized by using cannabis about 80 or more times, low PBS use, low perceived threat and benefits, and high perceived barriers. Profiles did not differ by age, ethnicity/race, sex, or college year, though varied significantly by age at first cannabis use, cannabis availability, cannabis problems, use frequency, and use context. Results provide preliminary support for distinct patterns of cannabis use, PBS, and health beliefs that align with the HBM. Results highlight the importance of considering how students perceive cannabis PBS and problems and how those beliefs may influence their PBS and cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia L Bolts
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, 1876 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
| | - Mark A Prince
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, 1876 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
| | - Nora E Noel
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina Wilmington, 601 South College Rd., Wilmington, NC 28409, USA.
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16
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Stella N. THC and CBD: Similarities and differences between siblings. Neuron 2023; 111:302-327. [PMID: 36638804 PMCID: PMC9898277 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.12.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and its sibling, cannabidiol (CBD), are produced by the same Cannabis plant and have similar chemical structures but differ dramatically in their mechanisms of action and effects on brain functions. Both THC and CBD exhibit promising therapeutic properties; however, impairments and increased incidence of mental health diseases are associated with acute and chronic THC use, respectively, and significant side effects are associated with chronic use of high-dose CBD. This review covers recent molecular and preclinical discoveries concerning the distinct mechanisms of action and bioactivities of THC and CBD and their impact on human behavior and diseases. These discoveries provide a foundation for the development of cannabinoid-based therapeutics for multiple devastating diseases and to assure their safe use in the growing legal market of Cannabis-based products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nephi Stella
- Department of Pharmacology, Department Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Center for Cannabis Research, Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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17
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Hatch MR, Bravo AJ, Looby A, Hurlocker MC. Who's at greatest risk? Latent profiles of alcohol and cannabis use and related consequences among college students. Addict Behav 2023; 137:107536. [PMID: 36334313 PMCID: PMC10259160 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is significant heterogeneity in alcohol and cannabis use patterns among college students, with some engaging in use patterns that heighten their risk for adverse consequences. Person-centered approaches can help identify those subgroups of students with riskier use patterns. Latent Profile Analyses (LPA) were conducted to identify subgroups based on alcohol and cannabis use frequency and quantity, to explore demographic covariates and to examine mean differences across subgroups on alcohol- and cannabis-related consequences, simultaneous use, and other substance use. METHODS Participants were 2,423 college students (Mage = 20.1; 72 % female) recruited from seven US universities who endorsed past-month alcohol and cannabis use and completed an online survey of substance use behaviors. RESULTS A four-profile solution was the best fitting model. Profile 1 represented "light, infrequent alcohol and cannabis use" (73.8 %), Profile 2 represented "heavy, infrequent alcohol and moderate, frequent cannabis use" (15.9 %), Profile 3 represented "moderate, frequent alcohol and cannabis use" (5.6 %) and Profile 4 represented "very heavy, frequent alcohol and heavy, frequent cannabis use" (4.7 %). Students who identify as male, White non-Hispanic, and/or Greek-affiliated were more likely to be in the heavy alcohol use profiles. Profiles 3 and 4 represent high-risk profiles, with both having a higher likelihood of simultaneous use, Profile 3 endorsing more cannabis consequences, and Profile 4 endorsing more alcohol consequences. CONCLUSION Results suggest that heavy alcohol or heavy co-use heightens risk for serious adverse consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa R Hatch
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
| | - Adrian J Bravo
- Department of Psychological Sciences, William & Mary, P.O. Box 8795, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795, USA.
| | - Alison Looby
- Department of Psychology, University of Wyoming, 1000 E. University Ave. Laramie, WY 82071, USA.
| | - Margo C Hurlocker
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA.
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18
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Cannabis Legalization and the Decline of Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) Treatment Utilization in the US. CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s40429-022-00461-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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19
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Grigsby TJ, Lopez A, Albers L, Rogers CJ, Forster M. A Scoping Review of Risk and Protective Factors for Negative Cannabis Use Consequences. Subst Abuse 2023; 17:11782218231166622. [PMID: 37056398 PMCID: PMC10087658 DOI: 10.1177/11782218231166622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Objective Numerous reviews have examined risk and protective factors for alcohol-related negative consequences, but no equivalent review of risk and protective factors exists for cannabis-related negative consequences (CRNCs)-a gap filled by the present study. This scoping review examined survey-based research of risk and protective factors for CRNCs such as neglecting responsibilities, blacking out, or needing more cannabis. Methods Three databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar) were searched for peer-reviewed manuscripts published between January 1, 1990, and December 31, 2021. A qualitative synthesis was performed using the matrix method and the results were organized using the socioecological model as a framework. Results Eighty-three studies were included in the review. There was considerable variation in measures and operationalizations of CRNCs across studies. Risk factors were identified in the intrapersonal (depression, social anxiety, PTSD, impulsivity, sensation seeking, motives, expectancies), interpersonal/community (trauma, victimization, family and peer substance use, social norms), and social/policy (education, employment, community attachment, legalization, availability of substances) domains of influence. Protective behavioral strategies were a robust protective factor for CRNCs. Males consistently reported more CRNCs than females, but there were no differences observed across race. Conclusions Future research should identify person- and product-specific patterns of CRNCs to refine theoretical models of cannabis misuse and addiction. Public health interventions to reduce the risk of negative consequences from cannabis should consider utilizing multilevel interventions to attenuate the cumulative risk from a combination of psychological, contextual, and social influences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J. Grigsby
- Department of Social and Behavioral
Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Timothy J. Grigsby, Department of Social
and Behavioral Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 S. Maryland Pkwy,
Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA.
| | - Andrea Lopez
- Department of Social and Behavioral
Health, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Larisa Albers
- Department of Population and Public
Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Christopher J. Rogers
- Department of Health Sciences,
California State University, Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
| | - Myriam Forster
- Department of Health Sciences,
California State University, Northridge, Northridge, CA, USA
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20
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Romano I, Butler A, Williams G, Aleyan S, Patte KA, Leatherdale ST. Risky cannabis use is associated with varying modes of cannabis consumption: Gender differences among Canadian high school students. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2022; 5:100101. [PMID: 36844170 PMCID: PMC9948853 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2022.100101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Our objective was to explore associations between indicators of more risky cannabis use (i.e., solitary use, frequent use, and younger age of initiation) and different modes of cannabis use (i.e., smoking, vaping and/or edibles). METHODS Data were gathered from a large sample of Canadian youth in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec who participated in Year 8 (2019-20) of the COMPASS study, and who reported using cannabis in the past year (n = 4,763). Generalized estimating equations were used to examine associations between risky cannabis use and modes of cannabis use, stratified by gender. RESULTS Overall, 38% of students reported using multiple modes of cannabis use. Consistent among both males and females, students who used cannabis alone (35%) and at a higher frequency (55%) were more likely to use multiple modes than smoking only. Among females, those who used cannabis alone were more likely to report using edibles only compared to smoking only (aOR=2.27, 95%CI=1.29-3.98). Earlier cannabis use initiation was associated with lower likelihood of vaping cannabis only among males (aOR=0.25; 95%CI = 0.12-0.51), and lower likelihood of using edibles only among females (aOR=0.35; 95%CI = 0.13-0.95), than by smoking only. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that multiple modes of use may be an important indicator or risky cannabis use among youth, given associations with frequency, solitary use, and age of onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Romano
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Alexandra Butler
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Gillian Williams
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Aleyan
- Department of Addictions, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - Karen A. Patte
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
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21
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Gravely S, Driezen P, McClure EA, Hammond D, Michael Cummings K, Chan G, Hyland A, Borland R, East KA, Fong GT, Schauer GL, Quah ACK, Ouimet J, Smith DM. Differences between adults who smoke cigarettes daily and do and do not co-use cannabis: Findings from the 2020 ITC four country smoking and vaping survey. Addict Behav 2022; 135:107434. [PMID: 35908323 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about population-level differences between adults who exclusively smoke cigarettes and those who smoke cigarettes and also use cannabis (co-consumers). Thus, this study describes differences on sociodemographic, cigarette-dependence, health and behavioral variables, and risk perceptions associated with smoking cannabis. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 6941 respondents from the 2020 ITC Four Country Smoking and Vaping Survey (US, Canada, Australia, England). Adult daily cigarette smokers were included and categorized as: cigarette-only smokers (never used cannabis/previously used cannabis, but not in the past 12 months, n = 4857); occasional co-consumers (cannabis use in the past 12 months, but < weekly use, n = 739); or regular co-consumers (use cannabis ≥ weekly, n = 1345). All outcomes were self-reported. Regression models were conducted on weighted data. RESULTS Overall, 19.9 % of respondents reported regular cannabis co-use and 10.1 % reported occasional co-use. Regular co-use was highest in Canada (27.2 %), followed by the US (24.4 %), England (12.7 %) and Australia (12.3 %). Compared to cigarette-only smokers, regular co-consumers were more likely to be male and report chest/breathing problems (p < 0.001). All co-consumers were more likely to be younger, have lower income, be experiencing financial stress, reside in Canada, have depressive symptoms, use alcohol more frequently and binge drink, use other tobacco/nicotine products, and perceive smoking cannabis as low health risk and less harmful than smoking cigarettes (all p < 0.001). Cigarette dependence measures were similar between co-consumers and cigarette-only smokers (all p ≥ 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Although there were no differences on cigarette dependence measures between daily cigarette smokers who do and do not use cannabis, there are several other risk factors that may affect tobacco use and abstinence among co-consumers (e.g., greater depression, high-risk alcohol consumption). Thus, tobacco cessation treatment may require multi-pronged strategies to address other health behaviors. Continued surveillance is needed to determine the nature and health implications of co-use considering changing policies, markets, and products.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Erin A McClure
- Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Hollings Cancer Center, USA
| | | | - K Michael Cummings
- Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), Hollings Cancer Center, USA
| | - Gary Chan
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Geoffrey T Fong
- University of Waterloo, Canada; Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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22
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Skelding B, Brunelle C. Typology of Canadian adult cannabis users following legalization. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2022.2140715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Skelding
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick Saint John, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Caroline Brunelle
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick Saint John, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
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23
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Howe LK, Bailey AJ, Ingram PF, Finn PR. An exploration of multivariate symptom clusters of cannabis use disorder in young adults. Addict Behav 2022; 135:107465. [PMID: 35995015 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2022.107465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Since the release of the DSM-V, CUD has been understood as a unidimensional construct. However, continued research has identified separate symptom clusters relating to consumption, loss of control, and withdrawal within substance use disorder criteria that may pose separate risk factors and functional difficulties. The current study aims to examine how symptom clusters commonly manifest in young adults that use cannabis using a latent class analysis (LCA) and explore how these clusters are related to co-occurring psychological constructs. METHODS 1174 (aged 18-34) participants completed a battery of assessments on substance use and other psychological constructs. LCA was conducted on 17 symptoms corresponding with DSM-V CUD criteria. Multinomial regressions were used to examine class membership and commonly co-occurring psychopathology and psychological constructs. RESULTS LCA results identified a 'No problems' class, a 'Moderate consumption' class characterized by moderate probability of endorsing consumption items, a 'Consumption with Moderate Loss of Control' class, characterized by endorsing consumption and loss of control items but minimal endorsement of withdrawal items, a 'Consumption with Moderate Withdrawal' class characterized by moderate probability of endorsing all item types, and 'High Consumption, Loss of Control, Withdrawal' class characterized by high probability of endorsing all items. Multinomial regressions indicated some class differences in psychological constructs. CONCLUSIONS Symptom clusters differed in terms of CUD criteria, especially for those in our sample with moderate/severe problems. Findings suggest intervention efforts may benefit from treatment targeted at various presentations of CUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindy K Howe
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Allen J Bailey
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Polly F Ingram
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Peter R Finn
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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24
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Bedillion MF, Dharbhamulla PO, Ansell EB. Associations between modes of cannabis use in daily life with concurrent and longitudinal hazardous use and consequences. Addict Behav 2022; 126:107208. [PMID: 34920328 PMCID: PMC9374195 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As diverse cannabis use patterns among recreational users continue to evolve, little is known about how modes of use may contribute to long-term risk. The current study examined the association between types and number of modes of cannabis used over a 21-day ecological momentary assessment (EMA) period with hazardous cannabis use and consequences both concurrently and six months later. METHODS A sample of 155 young adult recreational cannabis users, aged 18-30 (M = 21.1), reported on cannabis use patterns over 21-days, and completed baseline and six-month assessments of hazardous cannabis use and cannabis consequences. RESULTS At baseline, more frequent bowl use was associated with hazardous cannabis use and cannabis consequences. More frequent use of hash-oil was associated with more consequences at six months, while a greater proportion of hash-oil use relative to total use was associated with increased risk for hazardous cannabis use at six months. CONCLUSION While bowl use is characteristic of concurrent problematic use and consequences, only hash-oil predicted increased risk for hazardous use and consequences later. It may be that more frequent use of high-potency cannabis products, such as hash-oil, present unique risks for cannabis problems and consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret F. Bedillion
- Penn State University, Department of Biobehavioral Health, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Parag O. Dharbhamulla
- Penn State University, Department of Biobehavioral Health, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Emily B. Ansell
- Penn State University, Department of Biobehavioral Health, University Park, PA 16802,Corresponding Author: Emily B. Ansell, Department of Biobehavioral Health, Pennsylvania State University, 214 Biobehavioral Health Building, University Park, PA 16802;
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25
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Abstract
Purpose of Review To explore relations between behavioral economic demand for cannabis and cannabis use disorder (CUD). Prior reviews have focused on drug demand in relation to use outcomes more generally. Complementing and enhancing prior work synthesizing research on cannabis demand, the present review endeavors to determine whether specific demand indices derived from the marijuana purchase task are most reliably related to CUD. Additionally, sociodemographic characteristics of participants in these studies were reviewed to identify whether certain populations were underrepresented in behavioral economic cannabis research. Recent Findings Behavioral economic demand is related to CUD; intensity and elasticity of cannabis demand were consistently associated with CUD diagnosis and severity. However, frequently, only select demand indices were assessed or reported, precluding the ability to confirm which indices are superior for denoting CUD risk. Further, most studies enrolled samples that were predominately young adults, Caucasian, and male. Summary As CUD becomes more prevalent in the wake of cannabis legalization, identification of robust predictors of CUD risk is paramount. Cannabis demand is consistently associated with CUD; however, individual indices of import in this relationship remain ambiguous. Subsequent research is needed to confirm index-specific markers of disordered cannabis use, and whether links between demand and CUD generalize across diverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth R. Aston
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Box GS121-5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Heath, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Benjamin L. Berey
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Box GS121-5, Providence, RI 02912, USA
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26
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Vachhani K, Wijeysundera DN, Mistry N, Clarke H, Diep C, Ladha KS. The relationship between cannabis use and legalization frameworks: A cross-sectional analysis using a nationally representative survey. Prev Med 2022; 156:106978. [PMID: 35131207 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2022.106978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
State policies related to cannabis have rapidly evolved but the impact of current legislative frameworks on usage is not well characterized. This study explored cannabis use patterns under different legalization statuses in the United States. The dataset included individuals from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey in 2017 and 2018. Respondents were categorized into limited medical use, full medical use, or full legalization groups based on their state's cannabis policies. The primary outcome was cannabis use in the past 30 days. Among users, we characterized frequency, method, and reason for use. Logistic regression models were estimated to assess associations between legal status and these outcome measures. The study sample included 168,299 respondents. The unweighted proportion of respondents reporting cannabis use were: 4.96% in states with limited medical use, 6.50% in states with full medical use, and 12.33% in states with full legalization. Adjusted odds of use were greater for the full medical use group (1.13, 95%CI:1.02-1.25) and the full legalization group (2.53, 95%CI:2.28-2.82) compared to the limited medical use group. Users were more likely to use non-smoking methods in the full legalization group compared to the limited medical use group (1.77, 95%CI:1.41-2.22). A greater proportion of users in the full legalization group reported medical usage than in the other two groups. Policymakers should consider these findings in order to allow for use while safeguarding public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathak Vachhani
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Duminda N Wijeysundera
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nikhil Mistry
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hance Clarke
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Anesthesia and Pain Management, Toronto General Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Calvin Diep
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karim S Ladha
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Anesthesia, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Schluter MG, Hodgins DC. Measuring recent cannabis use across modes of delivery: Development and validation of the Cannabis Engagement Assessment. Addict Behav Rep 2022; 15:100413. [PMID: 35434244 PMCID: PMC9006737 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2022.100413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The CEA is consistent with expert-recommended guidelines for quantifying cannabis use. The CEA is representative of current patterns of recreational cannabis engagement. Estimates of cannabis use show strong associations with the timeline followback method. The CEA shows good test–retest reliability over a one-week period.
Introduction Methods of cannabis engagement have proliferated in recent years, which many self-report measures do not adequately capture. There is a clear need for self-report measures that capture current patterns of cannabis use across a range of methods, and that can be used to track changes over time. The current study developed the Cannabis Engagement Assessment (CEA), a self-report measure of past month cannabis use across dry flower, concentrate, and edible products. Methods A sample of 349 participants from the undergraduate student population and broader community were recruited. To examine convergent validity of the CEA, participants completed measures of cannabis engagement, cannabis misuse, and use-related problems. To assess divergent validity, participants also completed measures of depression and alcohol use problems. Criterion and test–retest reliability were examined in a subset of 65 participants who re-completed the CEA and a timeline follow-back interview (TLFB). Results Indicators of cannabis use frequency and quantity showed good convergence with measures of cannabis use patterns, problematic engagement, and cannabis use-related problems. Divergent validity of the CEA was supported by lower associations with alcohol use problems and depression symptoms. The CEA also showed good test–retest reliability and convergence with estimates of frequency and quantity of cannabis use from the TLFB. Conclusions The CEA is a viable self-report measure of cannabis use that is representative of current patterns of recreational cannabis engagement. Its focus on cannabis use in the preceding 30 days also lends itself to measuring changes in use over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalen G. Schluter
- Corresponding Author at: Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
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Fischer B, Robinson T, Bullen C, Curran V, Jutras-Aswad D, Medina-Mora ME, Pacula RL, Rehm J, Room R, van den Brink W, Hall W. Lower-Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines (LRCUG) for reducing health harms from non-medical cannabis use: A comprehensive evidence and recommendations update. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 99:103381. [PMID: 34465496 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use is common, especially among young people, and is associated with risks for various health harms. Some jurisdictions have recently moved to legalization/regulation pursuing public health goals. Evidence-based 'Lower Risk Cannabis Use Guidelines' (LRCUG) and recommendations were previously developed to reduce modifiable risk factors of cannabis-related adverse health outcomes; related evidence has evolved substantially since. We aimed to review new scientific evidence and to develop comprehensively up-to-date LRCUG, including their recommendations, on this evidence basis. METHODS Targeted searches for literature (since 2016) on main risk factors for cannabis-related adverse health outcomes modifiable by the user-individual were conducted. Topical areas were informed by previous LRCUG content and expanded upon current evidence. Searches preferentially focused on systematic reviews, supplemented by key individual studies. The review results were evidence-graded, topically organized and narratively summarized; recommendations were developed through an iterative scientific expert consensus development process. RESULTS A substantial body of modifiable risk factors for cannabis use-related health harms were identified with varying evidence quality. Twelve substantive recommendation clusters and three precautionary statements were developed. In general, current evidence suggests that individuals can substantially reduce their risk for adverse health outcomes if they delay the onset of cannabis use until after adolescence, avoid the use of high-potency (THC) cannabis products and high-frequency/-intensity of use, and refrain from smoking-routes for administration. While young people are particularly vulnerable to cannabis-related harms, other sub-groups (e.g., pregnant women, drivers, older adults, those with co-morbidities) are advised to exercise particular caution with use-related risks. Legal/regulated cannabis products should be used where possible. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis use can result in adverse health outcomes, mostly among sub-groups with higher-risk use. Reducing the risk factors identified can help to reduce health harms from use. The LRCUG offer one targeted intervention component within a comprehensive public health approach for cannabis use. They require effective audience-tailoring and dissemination, regular updating as new evidence become available, and should be evaluated for their impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Fischer
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Tessa Robinson
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence & Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Chris Bullen
- Schools of Population Health and Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; National Institute for Health Innovation (NIHI), The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, United Kingdom; NIHR University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Didier Jutras-Aswad
- Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada; Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Canada
| | - Maria Elena Medina-Mora
- Center for Global Mental Health Research, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rosalie Liccardo Pacula
- Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, Sol Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction & Mental Health, Toronto, Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robin Room
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Social Research on Alcohol and Drugs, Department of Public Health Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wim van den Brink
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam University Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wayne Hall
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, United Kingdom
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Steeger CM, Hitchcock LN, Bryan AD, Hutchison KE, Hill KG, Bidwell LC. Associations between self-reported cannabis use frequency, potency, and cannabis/health metrics. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2021; 97:103278. [PMID: 34062287 PMCID: PMC8585676 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research shows that cannabis use frequency is associated with cannabis dependence and health metrics. However, much less is known about how self-reported cannabis potency (THC and CBD) may be associated with the same metrics, and whether any associations exist after accounting for frequency of cannabis use. Moreover, even less is known about how these relations may differ across cannabis product forms. This exploratory study examined 1) associations between cannabis frequency, potency, and cannabis/health metrics, and 2) whether associations between potency and cannabis/health metrics remained after controlling for frequency of use. METHODS Using a sample of adult recreational cannabis users in Colorado (N = 300), we tested the relationship between self-reported cannabis use metrics of frequency and potency of flower, edible, and concentrate products with separate measures of problematic cannabis use (i.e., dependence, withdrawal, craving), depression, anxiety, and general perceived health. RESULTS Greater frequency of flower and concentrate (but not edible) use were associated with greater problematic cannabis use, and greater concentrate use frequency was also associated with more mental health problems. Partial correlations controlling for average frequency of use across all product forms and CBD potency per product showed that one significant association between THC potency and cannabis/health metrics remained (i.e., higher THC concentrate potency with better health), and one emerged (i.e., higher THC concentrate potency with lower cannabis withdrawal). CONCLUSIONS Frequency of use is reliably associated with problematic cannabis use for flower and concentrates, but it did not account for all observed associations in this study. Differences in patterns of associations between frequency and potency and cannabis/health metrics across cannabis forms suggest a need for better understanding user reports of THC and CBD potency, individual differences among users, and improved measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Steeger
- Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 1440 15th St., Boulder, CO 80309, USA.
| | - Leah N Hitchcock
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 344 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Angela D Bryan
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 344 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA; Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, 345 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Kent E Hutchison
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 344 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA; Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, 345 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Karl G Hill
- Institute of Behavioral Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 1440 15th St., Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - L Cinnamon Bidwell
- Institute of Cognitive Science, University of Colorado Boulder, 344 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA; Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, 345 UCB, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
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30
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Zuckermann AM, Gohari MR, Romano I, Leatherdale ST. Changes in cannabis use modes among Canadian youth across recreational cannabis legalization: Data from the COMPASS prospective cohort study. Addict Behav 2021; 122:107025. [PMID: 34175660 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.107025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Canadian youth consume cannabis in multiple ways, including by smoking, vaping, and eating or drinking. Existing evidence suggests that these behaviours may change after law liberalization, though data regarding youth are scarce. We investigated changes in cannabis modes of use and associated factors across the federal legalization of recreational cannabis use for adults in Canada, among a large sample of underage youth before alternative products were made legally available. METHODS Data were available from 2953 longitudinally linked Canadian high school students who reported on their cannabis use during the 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 school years. We explored whether students maintained a single or multiple cannabis use mode(s), contracted, or expanded the number of modes used. We then used generalized estimating equations to analyse associations of baseline characteristics with use mode trajectory. RESULTS Expansion of cannabis use modes (42.3%) was more common than maintenance of a single mode (31.3%), maintenance of multiple modes (14.3%), or reduction (12.1%). Students who maintained multiple modes were significantly more likely to have high amounts of weekly spending money (AOR 1.68), to binge drink (AOR 2.25) or vape (AOR 1.99), to use cannabis regularly (AOR 2.67), and to endorse more symptoms of depression (AOR 1.06). School support for quitting tobacco, drug, or alcohol use appeared to have no effect. CONCLUSIONS Multi-modal cannabis use increased among Canadian youth in our sample. Its association with other substance use and depressive symptoms may indicate clustering of additional harms. Screening for this use pattern may assist in identifying high-risk substance use and should be considered in the design of harm reduction programming.
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Ferguson E, Bush N, Yurasek A, Boissoneault J. The effect of next day responsibilities and an adaptive purchase task on cannabis demand. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 227:108919. [PMID: 34340160 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The marijuana purchase task (MPT) is a commonly used behavioral economic measure of relative cannabis value (i.e. demand) that presents specific methodological concerns due to non-standardized measurement, variability in modality of use, and evolving legalization policies. Refinement of the task is critical to improve task ecological validity and accurate measurement of cannabis demand. The present study examined the construct validity of an adaptive MPT that allowed for participant selection of their preferred cannabis-based product and unit of measurement and the effect of next-day responsibilities on demand. METHODS Participants reporting at least monthly cannabis use (N = 186, 40.3 % women, Mage = 33.59) were recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk and completed the original MPT and our adaptive form with 2 next-day responsibilities scenarios (no responsibilities vs. morning job interview) for each MPT. Cannabis use motives, problems, and risk for cannabis use disorder were also assessed. RESULTS Cannabis demand was sensitive to next-day responsibility, with higher hypothetical consumption observed in the no responsibilities condition. Responsibility-related decreases in Omax (F(1,185) = 4.83, p = .029, η2p = .03) were significantly greater on the adaptive MPT than the original MPT. Demand indices derived from the adaptive MPT were significantly correlated with cannabis problems (rbreakpoint = .19, rPmax = 0.18, relasticity=-0.18) and motives (rrange=-.32-.25), and demand metrics from the original MPT. CONCLUSIONS Results provide preliminary support for the construct validity of an adaptive MPT and suggest that early-morning work responsibilities may reduce cannabis demand. Continued research is needed to further refine this task and determine implications for cannabis use disorder intervention and prevention approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Ferguson
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Center for Pain Research and Behavioral Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nicholas Bush
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Center for Pain Research and Behavioral Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ali Yurasek
- Department of Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jeff Boissoneault
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Center for Pain Research and Behavioral Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Mackie CJ, Wilson J, Freeman TP, Craft S, Escamilla De La Torre T, Lynskey MT. A latent class analysis of cannabis use products in a general population sample of adolescents and their association with paranoia, hallucinations, cognitive disorganisation and grandiosity. Addict Behav 2021; 117:106837. [PMID: 33545621 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.106837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents have access to a wide range of cannabis products with patterns of use becoming increasingly diverse. This study aimed to identify subgroups of adolescents in the general population who use similar types of cannabis and their association with psychotic experiences. Data on cannabis use were obtained from 467 adolescents aged between 16 and 17 years. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified groups of adolescents based on the type of cannabis used in the past 12 months. Univariate analysis explored differences in socio-demographics, substance use and mental health symptoms between groups. Multivariate analysis examined associations between class membership and psychotic experiences controlling for frequency and amount of cannabis. Finally, we explored the association between motives for cannabis and class membership using multi-nominal logistic regression. LCA identified 3 classes of adolescents: (i) herbal only (47.9%); (ii) skunk only (20.8%) and (3) mixed use (31.3%). Relative to non-users, skunk only use was associated with a 2-fold increase in paranoia (OR = 2.45, 95% CI = 1.29-4.63), along with, sleep disturbance and anxiety. Monthly cannabis use and consuming 2 or more joints on one occasion was associated with a 2-fold increase in hallucinations (OR = 2.2; 95% CI = 1.0-4.8 and OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.2-3.2), but did not reach the Bonferroni corrected p-value. Expansion and conformity motives differentiated the mixed cannabis class from the herbal only class. The findings suggest that different subgroups of cannabis users exist in adolescence as defined by the type of cannabis consumed and are differentially related to psychotic experiences and motives for use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare J Mackie
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK.
| | - Jack Wilson
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Tom P Freeman
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK; Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, UK; Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, UK
| | - Sam Craft
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
| | | | - Michael T Lynskey
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, UK
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Burdzovic Andreas J, Sivertsen B, Lønning KJ, Skogen JC. Cannabis use among Norwegian university students: Gender differences, legalization support and use intentions, risk perceptions, and use disorder. Addict Behav Rep 2021; 13:100339. [PMID: 33604449 PMCID: PMC7873627 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2021.100339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Past year cannabis use was fairly common in a sample of Norwegian college students. About 6% of users possibly met criteria for use disorder, function of use frequency. Legalization attitudes and risk perceptions were associated with cannabis use risk. Intentions to use cannabis if legal were evident even among some current non-users. Many non-users expressed uncertainty in legalization attitudes and risk perceptions.
Aims We explored past-year cannabis use and associated characteristics, focusing on legalization attitudes, use intentions, risk perceptions, and possible dependence among Norwegian university/college students. Methods We examined a nation-wide sample of Norwegian university/college students (N = 49,688; 67% female) who participated in the Students’ Health and Wellbeing Study (SHoT-study) in 2018. Participants reported past-year substance use, support for cannabis legalization, intent to use cannabis if legal, and perceived risks of weekly use. Past-year cannabis use (including use frequency) was examined in relation to these indicators. Legalization support, use intentions, and risk perceptions were examined in relation to use and gender. Potential cannabis use disorder was assessed with the Cannabis Abuse Screening Test (CAST) and examined in relation to use frequency and gender. Findings Past-year use was reported by 15.3% (11.8% women; 22.9% men). Majority of current users (roughly 90%) used no more than 50 times past year, and 6% (3.8% women; 8.5% men) met CAST use disorder criteria. Legalization support, use intentions, and no/low risk perceptions were significantly associated with greater odds of use, and greater use frequency among current users in both crude and adjusted models. Legalization support (23.0%), use intentions (14.0%), and perceptions of no/low risk (29.2%) were also relatively common even among current non-users, especially men. Male gender and more frequent use were associated with greater CAST scores and greater odds of use disorder. Conclusions Cannabis use was relatively common in this student sample. In addition to targeting frequent use, interventions may focus on cannabis-related attitudes and risk perceptions among uncertain/uninformed students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmina Burdzovic Andreas
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Børge Sivertsen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Research and Innovation, Helse Fonna HF, Haugesund, Norway.,Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kari Jussie Lønning
- The Norwegian Medical Association, Oslo, Norway.,The Student Welfare Association of Oslo and Akershus (SiO), Oslo, Norway
| | - Jens Christoffer Skogen
- Department of Health Promotion, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway.,Alcohol and Drug Research Western Norway, Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway.,Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
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Swan C, Ferro MA, Thompson K. Does how you use matter? The link between mode of use and cannabis-related risk. Addict Behav 2021; 112:106620. [PMID: 32911353 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES With the recent legalization of cannabis there are more cannabis products available to consumers today than ever before. However, little is known about the relation of distinct modes of use to cannabis-related risks. The current study estimated the prevalence of different modes of use among a sample of university students, and quantified the magnitude of association between modes of use (type and number) and cannabis-related risks (i.e., dependence, negative consequences, simultaneous use with alcohol). METHODS The sample included 368 undergraduate students (71% female) who reported using cannabis in the last 6 months. RESULTS Joints were the most commonly reported primary mode (39%), followed by bongs/water pipes (33%), hand pipes (14%), edibles (7%) and vaporizers (5%). The majority of participants were multi-mode users (88%). On average, participants reported using 2.72 (sd = 1.04) modes of cannabis regularly. Bong users had more cannabis related harms (B = 1.85, p < .001), dependence symptoms (B = 1.87, p < .001) and were twice as likely to use alcohol and cannabis simultaneously (OR = 2.09; 95% CI: 1.17-3.74) compared to joint users. However, these associations were attenuated after adjusting for sex, age and cannabis frequency. Multi-modal users reported significantly more cannabis-related harms and misuse symptoms compared to single mode users. CONCLUSION Few differences in cannabis risks were found across modes of use. Frequency of use remains the most significant predictor of cannabis related risks. However, findings suggest that multimodal may be indicative of high risk cannabis use patterns and is an important target for screening and intervention.
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Stevens AK, Aston ER, Gunn RL, Sokolovsky AW, Padovano HT, White HR, Jackson KM. Does the Combination Matter? Examining the Influence of Alcohol and Cannabis Product Combinations on Simultaneous Use and Consequences in Daily Life. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2021; 45:181-193. [PMID: 33242220 PMCID: PMC8142286 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol and marijuana/cannabis are frequently used simultaneously (i.e., SAM use). SAM use is complex, and the ways in which alcohol and cannabis are simultaneously used may reveal differential effects. The purpose of this study was to examine day-level effects of distinct alcohol and cannabis product combinations on simultaneous use and consequences on that day. METHODS College student SAM users (N = 274; 50% women; Mage = 19.82 years) were recruited to complete 54 days of data collection, including 5 repeated daily surveys each day. We identified 12 distinct product combinations reported during SAM-use days. We tested 4 reference groups, with one reflecting the most common use pattern and 3 potentially risky use patterns. We considered 3 outcomes (negative consequences, number of drinks, and number of cannabis uses) and used generalized linear mixed-effects models disentangling within- from between-person effects in all analyses. RESULTS Using multiple products (≥2) of alcohol was consistently linked to higher odds of experiencing a negative consequence. Combining beer with only one cannabis product (leaf or concentrate) was consistently associated with lower odds of a consequence. Combining cannabis with multiple alcohol products was associated with heavier alcohol consumption. Using dual cannabis products also was associated with heavier cannabis consumption, but this pattern was not significantly different than using concentrate only on a given day. CONCLUSION This is the first study to examine day-level influences of distinct alcohol and cannabis product combinations on consumption and consequences among young adult SAM users. Findings suggest that mixing alcohol products confers greater risk for negative consequences and heavier consumption, whereas there is little difference in cannabis consumption when using concentrate only vs. 2 cannabis products on a given day, except for concentrate + beer. Our findings support existing protective strategies of not mixing alcohol products and avoiding use of cannabis concentrate for SAM use as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela K. Stevens
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Elizabeth R. Aston
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Rachel L. Gunn
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Alexander W. Sokolovsky
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Hayley Treloar Padovano
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
| | - Helene R. White
- Center of Alcohol and Substance Studies, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey
| | - Kristina M. Jackson
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, 02903, USA
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Pedersen ER, Firth CL, Rodriguez A, Shih RA, Seelam R, Kraus L, Dunbar MS, Tucker JS, Kilmer B, D'Amico EJ. Examining Associations Between Licensed and Unlicensed Outlet Density and Cannabis Outcomes From Preopening to Postopening of Recreational Cannabis Outlets. Am J Addict 2020; 30:122-130. [PMID: 33378105 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES To expand on epidemiologic studies examining associations between the legalization of recreational cannabis and use among young adults, we examined the associations between licensed and unlicensed cannabis outlet density and cannabis outcomes. METHODS A total of 1097 young adults aged 21 and older living in Los Angeles County were surveyed before licensed recreational cannabis outlets opened (Time 1: July to December 2017) and after (Time 2: July 2018 to June 2019). Using a database of open licensed and unlicensed cannabis retailers to calculate individual-level cannabis outlet density measures, we examined associations between outlet density within a 4-mile radius of participants' residences with Time 2 outcomes of any past-month use, daily use, intentions to use, quantity used, consequences, and cannabis use disorder (CUD) symptoms. RESULTS After controlling for demographic factors and cannabis outcomes at a time point prior to their opening (Time 1), licensed cannabis outlets were associated with young adults' cannabis use, heavy use, and intentions, and unlicensed outlets were associated with young adults' heavy cannabis use and CUD symptoms. CONCLUSION AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE This study expands beyond studies of outlet prevalence to find that, after controlling for outcomes 1 year prior, licensed and unlicensed outlets were associated with young adults' cannabis outcomes. The current study is among the first to find associations between cannabis use outcomes and density of cannabis outlets among young adults using data from two time points: preopening and postopening of recreational cannabis retailers. Findings can inform policies around the density and placement of cannabis outlets. (Am J Addict 2020;00:00-00).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Pedersen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California.,RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
| | | | | | | | | | - Lisa Kraus
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, California
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