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Sokratous S, Mpouzika M, Kaikoushi K, Alexandrou G, Karanikola M. Attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge regarding medical cannabis among healthcare students in the Republic of Cyprus: a cross-sectional descriptive correlational study. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1196915. [PMID: 37520218 PMCID: PMC10375702 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1196915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although international research-based literature from the last 2 decades seems to favor the use of medical cannabis (MC), there is a lack of evidence concerning healthcare students' education on MC in the Republic of Cyprus and across the world. Therefore, this study explores healthcare students' attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge regarding the use of MC. We paid special attention to differences across specific sociodemographic (gender, age, and religion status) and educational (level of study and study field) characteristics. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2019 and March 2020. All active undergraduate and postgraduate healthcare students (nurses, physiotherapists, speech therapists, pharmacists, and occupational therapists; N = 900) studying in public and private universities in the Republic of Cyprus were eligible to participate (final sample: N = 819, response rate = 91%). To collect data on the attitudes, beliefs and knowledge of the participants, we used the Medical Cannabis Questionnaire (MCQ). To analyze the data, we employed the Pearson's chi-square test for group differences, in addition to assessing the descriptive and inferential statistics. Results Approximately 82.2% believed that MC education should be integrated into the clinical practice requirements. Statistically significant differences were observed between genders in terms of beliefs/risk associated with the use of MC, with males being more likely to believe that there are significant mental-health benefits associated with using ΜC compared to females (84.9% vs. 76.2%, p<0.05). Females were more likely than males to believe that using MC poses serious physical (76.8% vs. 60.6%, p<0.001) and mental-health (77.9% vs. 66%, p<0.001) risks. Moreover, participants who received formal education about MC during their study/training were more prepared to answer patient/client questions about ΜC (p < 0.001). In addition, participants who received formal education had more frequently friends (p < 0.001) or family members who used MC (p < 0.005). Conclusion This study provides useful information for curriculum development, educational changes, and policy decisions related to cannabis use for medical purposes in the Republic of Cyprus. The results showed that the majority of the healthcare students who participated in the study favored MC use. However, the participants reported a lack of knowledge and recommended additional evidence-based research and education to enhance their knowledge about MC use. Therefore, we recommend the implementation of formal education on MC among healthcare students in the Republic of Cyprus during their study and clinical training. Furthermore, it is important to include MC-related theoretical and clinical/laboratory courses during studies and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sokratis Sokratous
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Meropi Mpouzika
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Maria Karanikola
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
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Dekeseredy P, Brownstein H, Haggerty T, Sedney CL. Using Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain: A Social-Ecological Framework. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023. [PMID: 37155681 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0016] [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: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Early studies suggest medical cannabis (MC) has the potential to benefit people who suffer from chronic pain by offering a less addictive alternative to opioids; however, most investigators agree more research is indicated. Today, in 2023, cannabis remains a Schedule I drug and is an illegal substance in the United States under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. Despite this designation, as of February 2022, 37 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia allowed using cannabis products to treat certain painful medical conditions. The contradictory status of federal and state legislation regarding cannabis use has resulted in delays and restrictions on relevant research. As a result, an inadequate foundation of knowledge exists needed to inform policy, program, and practice decisions concerning MC to treat pain. Implementing and controlling access to MC is influenced by overlapping individual, interpersonal, community, and organizational influences that all fall under the umbrella of federal and state policies. Increasingly, the legalization and expanded access to MC necessitates the integration of evidence, policy, and social-ecological reality. To adequately delineate these complex factors to anticipate and plan future interventions at multiple levels, we propose a social-ecological framework (SEF) for using MC to treat pain. This SEF assumes the transactional relationship between the individual and the environment and that no single factor can predict behavior or health outcomes. Our framework illustrates five dynamic levels of analysis that interact between dimensions. Key elements and intersections are discussed at the intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, community, and policy levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Dekeseredy
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Henry Brownstein
- Sociology and Anthropology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Treah Haggerty
- Department of Family Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | - Cara L Sedney
- Department of Neurosurgery, Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
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Everhart RS, Lohr KD, Ramos MS, Hernández Dubon RE, Heron KE, Mazzeo SE, Corona R. Perceived Stress, Religiosity, and Substance Use Among African American and Latinx College Students with Asthma in the USA. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:1050-1069. [PMID: 36752896 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01754-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This study examined associations among perceived stress, religiosity, and substance use in African American and Latinx college students with asthma. Participants included 194 college students with asthma (18-20 years, 63.4% African American, 21.1% Latinx). Eligible students completed an online questionnaire that included measures of asthma control, perceived stress, religiosity, alcohol misuse, and last 30-day tobacco use and marijuana use. Over one-quarter (25.3%) of participants reported using tobacco and 31.9% reported using marijuana in the past 30 days. Perceived stress and religiosity were each independently associated with multiple indicators of substance use. Asthma control moderated associations between religiosity and tobacco use in the past 30 days (b = - .014, p = .002), such that the association between religiosity and tobacco use was stronger among those with better asthma control. Participant gender significantly moderated the association between perceived stress and alcohol misuse (b = - .099, p = .029); a stronger, positive association between stress and alcohol misuse was found among men. Students' perceived stress levels were associated with marijuana use in the past 30 days and high alcohol misuse. Religiosity was inversely linked to substance use. There is a need for healthcare providers to recognize and focus on substance use prevention specifically among African American and Latinx college students with asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin S Everhart
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street, Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA.
| | - Katherine D Lohr
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street, Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA
| | - Mayra S Ramos
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street, Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA
| | | | - Kristin E Heron
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Suzanne E Mazzeo
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street, Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA
| | - Rosalie Corona
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 806 West Franklin Street, Box 842018, Richmond, VA, 23284-2018, USA
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Muacevic A, Adler JR. How Demographic Factors Impact Attitudes Toward the Recreational Use of Cannabis. Cureus 2023; 15:e34304. [PMID: 36860218 PMCID: PMC9970729 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
While cannabis legalization in the United States has become more commonplace, differences in attitudes toward its use persist. Negative attitudes toward cannabis create barriers to care for those seeking its use for therapeutic purposes. Existing research regarding the attitudes surrounding cannabis is specific to medical cannabis (MC) use or cannabis use in general. To address this gap, the present research sought to explore the demographic factors that influence attitudes toward recreational cannabis, including gender, age, ethnicity, race, level of education, marital status, number of children, the legal status of cannabis in the state of residency, employment status, political party affiliation, political view, and religion. The Recreational Cannabis Attitudes Scale (RCAS) was used to measure participants' attitudes toward recreational cannabis. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) or one-way Welch ANOVA was used to determine variations in RCAS scores between different demographic groups. Data from 645 participants indicated that gender (P = 0.039), employment status (P = 0.016), political party affiliation (P = 0.002), political view (P = 0.0005), the legal status of the state of residence (P = 0.003), religion (P = 0.0005), and experience with cannabis (P = 0.0005) had significant variations between groups regarding attitudes toward recreational cannabis. Understanding the factors that inform attitudes is critical to efforts to destigmatize cannabis use. Education about cannabis is an effective measure in reducing stigma, and paired with demographic information, advocacy efforts can be more accurately targeted.
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Fitouchi L, André JB, Baumard N. Moral disciplining: The cognitive and evolutionary foundations of puritanical morality. Behav Brain Sci 2022; 46:e293. [PMID: 36111617 DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x22002047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Why do many societies moralize apparently harmless pleasures, such as lust, gluttony, alcohol, drugs, and even music and dance? Why do they erect temperance, asceticism, sobriety, modesty, and piety as cardinal moral virtues? According to existing theories, this puritanical morality cannot be reduced to concerns for harm and fairness: It must emerge from cognitive systems that did not evolve for cooperation (e.g., disgust-based "purity" concerns). Here, we argue that, despite appearances, puritanical morality is no exception to the cooperative function of moral cognition. It emerges in response to a key feature of cooperation, namely that cooperation is (ultimately) a long-term strategy, requiring (proximately) the self-control of appetites for immediate gratification. Puritanical moralizations condemn behaviors which, although inherently harmless, are perceived as indirectly facilitating uncooperative behaviors, by impairing the self-control required to refrain from cheating. Drinking, drugs, immodest clothing, and unruly music and dance are condemned as stimulating short-term impulses, thus facilitating uncooperative behaviors (e.g., violence, adultery, free-riding). Overindulgence in harmless bodily pleasures (e.g., masturbation, gluttony) is perceived as making people slave to their urges, thus altering abilities to resist future antisocial temptations. Daily self-discipline, ascetic temperance, and pious ritual observance are perceived as cultivating the self-control required to honor prosocial obligations. We review psychological, historical, and ethnographic evidence supporting this account. We use this theory to explain the fall of puritanism in western, educated, industrialized, rich, and democratic (WEIRD) societies, and discuss the cultural evolution of puritanical norms. Explaining puritanical norms does not require adding mechanisms unrelated to cooperation in our models of the moral mind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léo Fitouchi
- Département d'études cognitives, Institut Jean Nicod, ENS, EHESS, PSL University, CNRS, Paris, France. ; https://sites.google.com/view/leofitouchi ; http://jb.homepage.free.fr/ ; https://nicolasbaumards.org/
| | - Jean-Baptiste André
- Département d'études cognitives, Institut Jean Nicod, ENS, EHESS, PSL University, CNRS, Paris, France. ; https://sites.google.com/view/leofitouchi ; http://jb.homepage.free.fr/ ; https://nicolasbaumards.org/
| | - Nicolas Baumard
- Département d'études cognitives, Institut Jean Nicod, ENS, EHESS, PSL University, CNRS, Paris, France. ; https://sites.google.com/view/leofitouchi ; http://jb.homepage.free.fr/ ; https://nicolasbaumards.org/
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Sokratous S, Kaikoush K, Mpouzika MD, Alexandrou G, Karanikola NM. Attitudes, beliefs and knowledge about medical cannabis among nurses and midwives in Cyprus: a cross-sectional descriptive correlational study. BMC Nurs 2022; 21:120. [PMID: 35585574 PMCID: PMC9118681 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-022-00887-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a lack of evidence on healthcare professionals' attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs about medical cannabis in Cyprus and across the world. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge about MC use among nurses and midwives in Cyprus. Special focus was given to differences across gender, age, religion, marital status, and years of work experience. METHODS A descriptive, cross-sectional correlational study with internal comparisons was conducted during the 26th Nurses and Midwives Congress in Cyprus. All active nurses and midwives (convenience sampling), from the private and national healthcare services (n = 526) were eligible to participate. To analyze the data, the Pearson Chi-square test for group differences was employed, and descriptive and inferential statistics were assessed. RESULTS The final sample population consisted of 232 nurses and midwives (response rate of 46.4%). In total, 67(28.9%) participants were male, and 165(71.1%) were female. Cypriot nurses and midwives reported lack of knowledge regarding the risks and benefits about MC use to patients. However, specific number of participants believed MC use was considered acceptable for the patients with persistent muscle spasms, insomnia/sleeping disorders, mental health conditions, and terminal illnesses. The vast majority of the participants believed that formal training on MC should be integrated into academic programs, and expressed the necessity of urgent training under the current curriculum, as well as, educational training programs about MC use should be integrated into the practice/clinical practice. Concerning the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants, gender had a statistically significant positive effect on participants' attitudes and beliefs about MC (p < 0.01, 26.8% vs. 13.4%). Male and unmarried participants reported higher frequency about cannabis use for recreational purposes, compared with female group (p < 0.01, 22.8%Vs 11.4%). Unmarried participants agreed that using cannabis might develop serious mental health risks compared with married participants group (p < 0.05, 77.9% vs. 66.8%). CONCLUSIONS The conclusions seem to be rather recommending in favor of MC use. Participants proposed enriching nursing curricula with theoretical and clinical/laboratory courses about MC during studies and clinical practice. Additional tailoring interventions should be established to decrease recreational cannabis use among Cypriot nurses and midwives.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sokratous
- Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Vragadinou Street, Limassol, Cyprus.
| | - K Kaikoush
- PhD, Mental health Nurse, Cyprus Mental Health Services, Larnaca, Cyprus
| | - M D Mpouzika
- Assistant Professor, Critical Care Nursing, Advanced Emergency and Intensive Nursing Care, Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Vragadinou Street, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - G Alexandrou
- PhD(c), Mental health Nurse, Cyprus Mental Health Services, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - N M Karanikola
- Associate Professor, Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Mental Health Studies & Research Cyprus University of Technology Chair Cyprus University of Technology Vragadinou Street, Limassol, Cyprus
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Grant Weinandy JT, Grubbs JB. Religious and spiritual beliefs and attitudes towards addiction and addiction treatment: A scoping review. Addict Behav Rep 2021; 14:100393. [PMID: 34938850 PMCID: PMC8664870 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2021.100393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Throughout history, ideas about addiction have been informed and influenced by religious belief and practice. Even continuing into the present, religion and spirituality are often thought to impact attitudes towards addiction and its treatment, particularly given the use of religion and spirituality in various well-known treatments such as Alcoholics Anonymous. Although research has flourished with regards to the role that addiction and spirituality might play in vulnerability to addiction or the treatment of addiction, there has been comparatively less research examining how religion might impact attitudes toward addiction more broadly. METHOD The present work sought to examine the current state of empirical literature evaluating the relationships between religion and attitudes toward addiction and addiction treatment. In service of the above aim, a scoping review was conducted. RESULTS This summary of peer-reviewed, quantitative studies (n = 36) found that higher religiosity is related to more belief in the disease model of addiction in providers, negative attitudes towards addiction, and a stronger support for spiritually-based treatments. However, results varied based on the measures used and many relationships tested were not significant. There also appeared to be differences in the interaction between religion and spirituality and other variables, such as the respondent's sex or whether the individual was a student or provider, in terms of attitudes. CONCLUSIONS Further research is needed to fully understand the nuances in the relationship between these variables, including more clear operationalization and standardized measurement. Until such research is conducted, no cohesive conclusions can be drawn, and clinical implications remain unclear.
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Zolotov Y, Grinstein Cohen O, Findley PA, Reznik A, Isralowitz R, Willard S. Attitudes and knowledge about medical cannabis among Israeli and American nursing students. NURSE EDUCATION TODAY 2021; 99:104789. [PMID: 33571928 DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2021.104789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although medical cannabis regulations are emerging in many places around the world, a contentious conundrum remains within the medical establishment regarding the appropriate part that cannabis may have in the provision of health care. Nurses have an indispensable role in the care management of patients, and given the consideration of cannabis as a possible treatment, they are warranted to be aware of its medical properties, as well as to be able to adequately answer patient queries. Nevertheless, very little is currently known about nurses' perceptions related to medical cannabis. OBJECTIVE To assess attitudes, beliefs and knowledge about medical cannabis among nursing students. METHODS Cross-sectional study in two universities: Rutgers University (RU) in New Jersey and Ben Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) in Israel. In addition to demographic data, the survey instrument included questions about attitudes, beliefs, knowledge, and training. RESULTS Overall, 387 students participated, mainly females (87.8%). The vast majority from both sub-groups stated they would recommend cannabis to their patients if allowed to do so (91.2%), and were in agreement that medical cannabis is associated with significant benefits for physical (93.5%) and mental (87.8%) health. Compared to the BGU sub-group, more students from RU stated that they feel prepared to answer patient questions about medical cannabis (19.5% vs. 33.5%, respectively; χ2 = 9.74, p < 0.01). While the majority of respondents stated they have not received any formal education related to medical cannabis, they expressed endorsement for such training and education. CONCLUSIONS In light of the expanding number of patients who use medical cannabis, this study highlights the importance of incorporating medical cannabis education for nurses in academic and clinical curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Zolotov
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel.
| | - Orli Grinstein Cohen
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Patricia A Findley
- Graduate School of Social Work, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Alexander Reznik
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Richard Isralowitz
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Suzanne Willard
- School of Nursing, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Isralowitz R, Reznik A, Zolotov Y, Grinstein-Cohen O, Wacht O, Pruginin I, Yehudai M, Edelstein O. Toward medical cannabis education in Israel. Complement Ther Med 2021; 58:102709. [PMID: 33716092 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding medical cannabis among Israeli medical, nursing, social work and other health related students as well as to outline the formation of an instrument for standardized data collection on these topics. METHODS An invitation to participate with a link for the online survey was sent to all students pursuing a degree in medicine, nursing, social work, and other health disciplines in the Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel. The instrument included 32 items that measured knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding medical cannabis. In addition, demographic data were collected and participants were asked about the frequency of medical or recreational cannabis use. RESULTS Among the 763 participants, 596 were females (78 %), and the mean age was 25.8 years. While the reported personal use of medical cannabis was minimal (1.9 %), cannabis use for recreational purposes was relatively common (54.0 %). The vast majority believed that medical cannabis holds significant health benefits but expressed concerns regarding potential risks of cannabis use. Additionally, the vast majority of students felt unprepared to answer patients' questions about medical cannabis and expressed a desire to receive more training. Several significant differences between the different academic disciplines were observed. CONCLUSIONS In light of current regulatory and scientific developments, it is apparent that students of health professions will need a greater level of understanding of medical cannabis than previous generations of students. This study emphasizes the ample need for more knowledge and formal education to students of health and related professions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Isralowitz
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research (RADAR) Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel.
| | - Alexander Reznik
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research (RADAR) Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Yuval Zolotov
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research (RADAR) Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Orli Grinstein-Cohen
- Department of Nursing, Toby Mower Curriculum for the Prevention and Treatment of Addiction, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Oren Wacht
- Department of Emergency Medical Services, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Itay Pruginin
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research (RADAR) Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Mor Yehudai
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research (RADAR) Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Offer Edelstein
- The Spitzer Department of Social Work, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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Felnhofer A, Kothgassner OD, Stoll A, Klier C. Knowledge about and attitudes towards medical cannabis among Austrian university students. Complement Ther Med 2021; 58:102700. [PMID: 33677020 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relevance of medical cannabis (MC) increases; and, educating those who are at the forefront of patient care is imperative. Yet, research on medical students' expertise and opinions is still scarce. OBJECTIVE This study set out to evaluate Austrian medical students' knowledge about and attitudes towards MC and compare them with other academic disciplines. Additionally, gender was controlled for. METHODS An online survey was conducted with N = 404 students enrolled in (1) medical studies, (2) studies with a medical background and (3) studies without a medical background. RESULTS In contrast to non-medical students, 64 % of medical students said they learnt about MC at the university. Although students were confident about their knowledge, they struggled to differentiate between CBD and THC. Chronic pain, oncological diseases and palliative care were the most frequently cited indications, psychiatric indications, however, were mentioned less often. Medical students were more reserved in their attitudes towards increasing medical usage and legalizing cannabis than the two other groups. Also, they were more skeptical about whether physicians should be allowed to prescribe MC and whether they should be obliged to offer it. Males showed more confidence regarding cannabis knowledge and were more favorable of legalizing and prescribing cannabis; females perceived cannabis as more physically addictive and as a gate-way drug. CONCLUSIONS Considering that beliefs and attitudes shape behavior, it is expected that future health care professionals will struggle with recommending cannabis for medical treatment. A coordinated approach for medical training is needed to ensure high standard medical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Felnhofer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, CCP, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Oswald D Kothgassner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Astrid Stoll
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Klier
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, CCP, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
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Sokratous S, Mpouzika MDA, Kaikoushi K, Hatzimilidonis L, Koutroubas VS, Karanikola MNK. Medical cannabis attitudes, beliefs and knowledge among Greek-Cypriot University nursing students. Complement Ther Med 2021; 58:102707. [PMID: 33675934 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We aimed to explore the attitudes, beliefs and knowledge of nursing students about medical cannabis use in Cyprus. Special focus was given on gender differences and the year of studentship. DESIGN A descriptive, cross-sectional study with internal comparisons was performed on undergraduate nursing students in Cyprus. Pearson chi-square test for group differences was employed. A total of 252 questionnaires were anonymously and voluntarily completed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were assessed. RESULTS 21 % male and 79 % female were included in the sample (response rate 62.7 %). Third year student participants reported more frequent use of cannabis for all reasons - for themselves, friends and family (p < 0.05). Furthermore, they reported more positive statements on the effectiveness of medical cannabis in treating medical conditions (p < 0.05). Moreover, female students reported more frequently the necessity of incorporating medical cannabis training into academic curricula (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Given the reported lack of knowledge, enrichment of nursing curricula with medical cannabis related courses and lectures, both theoretical and clinical/ laboratory, are proposed. The associations of attitudes with gender and years of studentship point to the need of taking these factors into consideration for relevant education and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sokratis Sokratous
- Department of Nursing, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
| | | | - Katerina Kaikoushi
- Department of Nursing, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus
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Konstantinov V, Reznik A, Zangeneh M, Gritsenko V, Khamenka N, Kalita V, Isralowitz R. Foreign Medical Students in Eastern Europe: Knowledge, Attitudes and Beliefs about Medical Cannabis for Pain Management. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2137. [PMID: 33671711 PMCID: PMC7926830 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18042137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of foreign students toward the use of medical cannabis (MC) for pain management. METHODS This study uses data collected from 549 foreign students from India (n = 289) and Middle Eastern countries mostly from Egypt, Iran, Syria, and Jordan (n = 260) studying medicine in Russia and Belarus. Data collected from Russian and Belarusian origin medical students (n = 796) were used for comparison purposes. Pearson's chi-squared and t-test were used to analyze the data. RESULTS Foreign students' country of origin and gender statuses do not tend to be correlated with medical student responses toward medical cannabis use. Students from Russia and Belarus who identified as secular, compared to those who were religious, reported more positive attitudes toward medical cannabis and policy change. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to examine the attitudes, knowledge, and beliefs toward medical cannabis among foreign students from India and Middle Eastern countries studying in Russia and Belarus, two countries who oppose its recreational and medicine use. Indian and Middle Eastern students, as a group, tend to be more supportive of MC than their Russian and Belarusian counterparts. These results may be linked to cultural and historical reasons. This study provides useful information for possible medical and allied health curriculum and education purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Reznik
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (A.R.); (R.I.)
| | - Masood Zangeneh
- School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Toronto, ON M9W 5L7, Canada;
| | - Valentina Gritsenko
- Department of Social Psychology, Moscow State University of Psychology and Education, 123290 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Natallia Khamenka
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Belarusian State Medical University, 220116 Minsk, Belarus;
| | - Vitaly Kalita
- Department of Pedagogy and Psychology of Professional Education, Moscow State University of Technology and Management Named after K.G. Razumovski, 109004 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Richard Isralowitz
- Regional Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel; (A.R.); (R.I.)
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Medical cannabis education among healthcare trainees: A scoping review. Complement Ther Med 2021; 58:102675. [PMID: 33539943 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2021.102675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES It has been previously demonstrated that healthcare professionals would like additional education on medical cannabis. However, there has not yet been a review of the status of medical cannabis curriculum for medical and allied healthcare trainees worldwide, even though future healthcare workers will be placed on the forefront of patient care and must be prepared to counsel patients. This study was designed to address this gap in knowledge. DESIGN A search syntax was generated and databases PubMed, ERIC, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched for relevant articles. A grey literature search of Google Scholar, MedEd, Medline, and the Proquest Dissertations and Theses section was also performed. All titles and abstracts were screened. Selected articles were subsequently screened using predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. RESULTS Allied healthcare trainees lacked sufficient knowledge about medical cannabis and did not feel prepared to counsel patients on this subject. Additionally, they expressed a growing interest in medical cannabis and would like more standardized education on the topic. Finally, faculty and deans in various institutions agreed on the need to educate students on the subject, and aimed to implement courses on medical cannabis or expand their existing curricula. CONCLUSIONS While the medical cannabis landscape is developing, medical and allied health students are not properly educated and knowledgeable on this emerging field of clinical care. The findings suggest that the implementation of competencies-based curricula on medical cannabis is essential for medical and allied healthcare trainees to have the appropriate level of knowledge to counsel and educate their patients.
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