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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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Ehlke SJ, Fitzer SA, Stamates AL, Kelley ML. Distal and Proximal Minority Stressors on Patterns of Tobacco and Cannabis Use Among Young Bisexual Women. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:390-396. [PMID: 38258836 PMCID: PMC11209863 DOI: 10.1177/29767342231222246] [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] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bisexual women have high rates of tobacco and cannabis use, but few studies have examined co-use behavior in this population. Although the role of distal minority stressors (eg, discrimination) on substance use has been examined, fewer studies have examined proximal minority stressors (eg, negative sexual identity self-schemas). The current study was a secondary data analysis that examined patterns of tobacco and cannabis use, and the role of distal (instability of bisexuality, sexual irresponsibility of bisexual people, and hostility toward bisexual people) and proximal (illegitimacy of bisexuality, anticipated binegativity, internalized binegativity, and identity affirmation) bisexual-specific minority stressors among bisexual women. METHODS Participants were 224 young (aged 18-30 years old) self-identified bisexual women who reported on their past 30-day tobacco and cannabis use and completed measures of distal and proximal bisexual-specific minority stressors. Participants were categorized into one of 4 patterns: no use, tobacco use only, cannabis use only, and tobacco and cannabis co-use. RESULTS The most common pattern of past 30-day use was tobacco and cannabis co-use (39.1%). Results from a multinomial logistic regression revealed that bisexual women who reported higher illegitimacy of bisexuality, a proximal minority stressor, were significantly more likely to engage in tobacco and cannabis co-use, relative to no use. DISCUSSION Bisexual women have particularly high rates of substance use, with tobacco and cannabis co-use as the most common pattern. Incorporating the role of proximal minority stressors, and specifically, beliefs about the legitimacy of bisexuality, may be an important target of substance use interventions for bisexual women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J. Ehlke
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | | | - Amy L. Stamates
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Michelle L. Kelley
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Ortiz-Paredes D, Chanady T, Wassef K, Knight R, Ferlatte O. 'I created my own access:' understanding mental healthcare access experiences among LGTBQ + youth who use cannabis in Canada. CULTURE, HEALTH & SEXUALITY 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38639032 DOI: 10.1080/13691058.2024.2340090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
In North America, LGBTQ+ youth have high rates of cannabis use and face mental health issues. We conducted a photovoice study to describe the perspectives, needs, and motivations of forty-six LGBTQ+ youth who use cannabis as they access mental healthcare services. Participants' photographs were discussed in individual semi-structured interviews conducted by peer researchers. Following a thematic analysis of the interview transcripts, we first found that, beyond medication, LGBTQ+ youth sought mental health services facilitating introspection to better understand their sexual and gender identities and mental health. Second, participants sought affirming health professionals but often felt judged by providers. Third, access to desired services was often described as uncertain and taxing, which impacted their mental health. Fourth, participants' agency was determined by their experience with mental health services, which translated into resilience to tackle access challenges and cannabis use to mitigate their mental health struggles. Our findings point to the need for mental healthcare delivery that goes beyond medication provision but which in addition foster therapeutic processes based on a holistic understanding of mental health. A trusting dynamic between health professionals and LGBTQ+ youth is imperative to counteract the feelings of stigma experienced by LGBTQ+ youth using cannabis in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ortiz-Paredes
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Tara Chanady
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Kinda Wassef
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Rod Knight
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Olivier Ferlatte
- École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
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Parnes JE, Le TP, Mereish EH, Miranda R. Daily associations between resilience factors, substance use, and affect among sexual minority youth. PSYCHOLOGY OF ADDICTIVE BEHAVIORS 2024:2024-54430-001. [PMID: 38358656 PMCID: PMC11324862 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Past research has highlighted that sexual minority youth (SMY) are at particular risk for heightened substance use compared to their heterosexual peers; however, few studies have investigated the associations between resilience factors and substance use among SMY. In the present preregistered study, we examined the associations among three different forms of resilience factors (i.e., general social support, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ)-identity affirmation, LGBTQ community involvement) and alcohol, nicotine, and cannabis use, as well as on positive and negative affect. METHOD SMY (n = 82, ages 15-19, 56.1% cisgender women, 84.4% White) completed a baseline assessment then a 30-day ecological momentary assessment study. Multilevel regression models evaluated within-day and between-person associations between resilience factors and odds of substance use (alcohol, nicotine, cannabis), substance use quantity on use days (alcohol, cannabis), positive affect, and negative affect. RESULTS On the day level, general social support was associated with greater positive affect, lesser negative affect, and greater drinks on drinking days. LGBTQ-identity affirmation was associated with greater positive affect, lesser negative affect, and greater odds of nicotine use. LGBTQ community involvement was associated with greater positive affect. CONCLUSIONS These results highlight the nuanced ways that resilience may engender more positive affect and reduce negative affect while simultaneously promoting substance use. Future research disentangling the mechanisms connecting resilience and substance use among SMY is necessary. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie E Parnes
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University
| | | | - Ethan H Mereish
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University
| | - Robert Miranda
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University
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Romm KF, Ehlke SJ, Smith MA, Vogel EA, McQuoid J, Kendzor DE, Cohn AM. Cannabis Use Differences Among Sexual Minority Versus Heterosexual Females and Males in Oklahoma: The Roles of Mental Health, Cannabis Perceptions, and Cannabis Marketing Exposure. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:101-113. [PMID: 38258857 DOI: 10.1177/29767342231208519] [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] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the high cannabis use rates among sexual minority (SM) individuals, less research has examined factors related to cannabis use among SM (vs. heterosexual) individuals, especially in places with legal medical cannabis retail markets and high structural stigma, like Oklahoma. METHODS Data were from a survey of Oklahoma adults, including 3020 females (18.6% SM) and 2279 males (10.1% SM). Bivariate analyses examined associations of sexual identity with cannabis-related factors (i.e., perceived harm, positive attitudes, marketing exposure, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms) and cannabis use and use severity (i.e., past 30-day use, daily/near-daily use, cannabis use disorder [CUD] symptoms). Logistic regression examined associations of sexual identity and cannabis-related factors with cannabis use and use severity among females and males, separately. RESULTS SM (vs. heterosexual) females reported greater odds of past 30-day cannabis use and daily/near-daily use, lower harm perceptions, greater marketing exposure, and higher rates of depressive/anxiety symptoms. Lower harm perceptions and greater marketing exposure were associated with greater odds of past 30-day use, whereas marketing exposure was associated with greater odds of daily/near-daily use. SM (vs. heterosexual) males reported greater odds of daily/near-daily use and higher rates of depressive/anxiety symptoms. CONCLUSIONS SM (vs. heterosexual) females reported higher rates of cannabis use, whereas SM (vs. heterosexual) females and males reported higher rates of daily/near-daily cannabis use. Potential targets for cannabis-related health campaigns aimed at reducing use differences include correcting misinterpretations of harm that may emanate from cannabis marketing efforts among females and addressing depressive symptoms among males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn F Romm
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Univeristy of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Sarah J Ehlke
- Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Michael A Smith
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Univeristy of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Erin A Vogel
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Univeristy of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Julia McQuoid
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Univeristy of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Darla E Kendzor
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Univeristy of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Amy M Cohn
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Univeristy of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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Struble CA, Borodovsky JT, Habib MI, Livne O, Walsh CA, Aharonovich E, Hasin DS, Budney AJ. Evaluating age-related disparities in cannabis-related problems among LGBT+ versus non-LGBT+ adults. Addict Behav 2024; 148:107861. [PMID: 37748224 PMCID: PMC10713017 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107861] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
LGBT+ adults demonstrate greater cannabis-related problems (e.g., Cannabis Use Disorder [CUD]) compared to non-LGBT+ counterparts. No study has explored age-related disparities in cannabis problems across the adult lifespan, nor have studies identified specific CUD criteria that contribute to elevated CUD among LGBT+ adults. The purpose of this study was to examine associations between LGBT+ identity and age with endorsement of CUD criteria in a sample of regular cannabis consumers. An online sample of N = 4334 (25.1% LGBT+) adults aged 18-64 residing in the U.S. completed an online survey about cannabis use behaviors and CUD diagnostic criteria. Bivariate contrasts revealed significantly greater CUD criteria endorsement among LGBT+ respondents, largely driven by differences at younger ages. However, this effect disappeared in the majority of adjusted logistic regression models. LGBT+ identity was associated with greater probability of use in larger amounts (adjOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.22-3.60) and use despite physical/mental health problems (adjOR = 2.51, 95% CI:1.23-5.03). No age*LGBT+ identity interactions were detected. Plotted trends depict more pronounced disparities in outcomes among LGBT+ adults under 35 years. Several potential risk and protective factors including employment, education, and reasons for use were identified. There were age-related differences in these characteristics among LGBT+ and non-LGBT+ respondents. Initial findings highlight the need for LGBT+ research examining trends in health outcomes and sociodemographic and cannabis characteristics across the lifespan. The study also provides a substantive contribution regarding specific cannabis-related problems that young LGBT+ cannabis consumers may be more likely to endorse than their non-LGBT+ counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cara A Struble
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Williamson Translational Research Building, Third Floor HB 7261, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - Jacob T Borodovsky
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Williamson Translational Research Building, Third Floor HB 7261, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - Mohammad I Habib
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Williamson Translational Research Building, Third Floor HB 7261, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - Ofir Livne
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Claire A Walsh
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Deborah S Hasin
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA; New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 West 168(th) St, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Alan J Budney
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Williamson Translational Research Building, Third Floor HB 7261, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
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Parnes JE, Berey BL, Pielech M, Meisel SN, Padovano HT, Miranda R. Does sleep relate to next-day cannabis use during treatment? Findings from an adolescent and young adult motivational enhancement and cognitive behavioral therapy plus topiramate intervention. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 253:111006. [PMID: 37944198 PMCID: PMC10842099 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.111006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interventions for youth cannabis use have limited efficacy. Sleep is likely to affect treatment response, as sleep difficulties are cross-sectionally associated with use and common during treatment. This analysis examined how sleep duration and subjective trouble sleeping related to next-day cannabis use among youth during cannabis treatment. METHOD Participants (N=64) received a psychosocial intervention plus topiramate versus placebo while completing a 6-week ecological momentary assessment study. Time-varying effect modeling (TVEM) examined within- and between-person associations between sleep and cannabis use and how the strength of within-person associations varied over the course of treatment. RESULTS TVEM resvealed that, between-participants, youth with longer average sleep duration used cannabis less often controlling for baseline cannabis use, topiramate, and weekend status. Daily within-person fluctuations in sleep duration and trouble were not associated with use. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest regularly shorter sleep may impede treatment outcomes. Adolescents who regularly have insufficient sleep durations likely need additional intervention to improve sleep difficulties in tandem with cannabis use reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie E Parnes
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; E. P. Bradley Hospital, Riverside, RI, USA
| | - Benjamin L Berey
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Melissa Pielech
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Samuel N Meisel
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; E. P. Bradley Hospital, Riverside, RI, USA
| | - Hayley Treloar Padovano
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Robert Miranda
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; E. P. Bradley Hospital, Riverside, RI, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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Assaf RD, Javanbakht M, Gorbach PM, Cooper ZD. Cannabis Use and Sharing Practices Among Sexual Minority and Heterosexual Individuals During the COVID-19 Pandemic. LGBT Health 2023; 10:514-525. [PMID: 37252794 PMCID: PMC10552144 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2022.0236] [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] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Cannabis behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic among sexual minority (SM) individuals in the United States remain understudied. This study assessed the prevalence and correlates of cannabis use and cannabis sharing, a potential risk for COVID-19 transmission, among SM and heterosexual-identified individuals in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from an anonymous, US-based web survey on cannabis-related behaviors from August to September 2020. Included participants reported past-year nonmedical cannabis use. Associations between frequency of cannabis use and sharing behaviors by sexual orientation were evaluated using logistic regression analysis. Results: Overall, 1112 respondents reported past-year cannabis use; mean age 33 years (standard deviation = 9.4), 66% male identified (n = 723), and 31% SM identified adults (n = 340). Increased cannabis use during the pandemic was similar among SM (24.7%; n = 84) and heterosexual (24.9%; n = 187) respondents. Any sharing during the pandemic was 81% for SM adults (n = 237) and 73% for heterosexual adults (n = 486). In the fully adjusted models, the odds of daily/weekly cannabis use and the odds of any cannabis sharing among SM respondents were 0.56 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.42-0.74) and 1.60 (95% CI = 1.13-2.26), respectively, compared with heterosexual respondents. Conclusions: SM respondents were less likely to use cannabis with high frequency during the pandemic but more likely to share cannabis compared with heterosexual respondents. Sharing cannabis was high overall, which may increase COVID-19 risk. Public health messaging around sharing may be important during COVID-19 surges and respiratory pandemics especially as cannabis becomes more widely available in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan D. Assaf
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Pamina M. Gorbach
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ziva D. Cooper
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Matouk KM, Schulman JK, Case JAC. Mental Health Disparities in Sexual Minority and Transgender Women: Implications and Considerations for Treatment. Psychiatr Clin North Am 2023; 46:583-595. [PMID: 37500252 DOI: 10.1016/j.psc.2023.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Minority stress theory offers an explanation of how discrimination, marginalization, harassment, and violence against sexual minority and transgender women are connected to mental health disparities. Particularly, these groups are vulnerable to body image issues, disordered eating, higher rates of mood and anxiety disorders, suicide and nonsuicidal self-injury, and substance use. Discrimination is also experienced within clinical settings, which may lead this population to postpone or avoid treatment. Clinicians play a crucial role in reducing barriers to health care by developing cultural competency and ensuring safe and affirming spaces within their practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kareen M Matouk
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 710 West 168th Street, 12th Floor, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Julie K Schulman
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 5141 Broadway, 3 River East, New York, NY 10034, USA
| | - Julia A C Case
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 710 West 168th Street, 12th Floor, New York, NY 10032, USA
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10
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Datta S, Mukherjee T. Impact of COVID-19 stress on the psychological health of sexual & gender minority individuals: A systematic review. Front Glob Womens Health 2023; 4:1132768. [PMID: 37066039 PMCID: PMC10090515 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2023.1132768] [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: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The differential effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the mental health of the population around the globe is well documented. Social isolation, loss of job, financial crisis, and fear of infection due to the pandemic have widely affected people across countries, and the sexual and gender minority (SGM) group is no exception. However, the additional stressors like stigma, discrimination, rejection, non-acceptance, and violence associated with diverse sexual orientation complicated the situation for the SGM group in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. Method The present study conducted a systematic review of research (n = 16) investigating the impact of Covid-19 stress on the psychological health of SGM individuals. The review had two objectives: (a) to explore the effect of the stress associated with the pandemic on the psychological health of the SGM individuals; and (b) to identify potential stressors associated with the Covid-19 pandemic affecting the mental health of SGM individuals. Studies were selected following a PRISMA protocol and several inclusion criteria. Results The review provided new insights into the mental health issues of the SGM individual in the Covid-19 context. The outcome of the review focused on five aspects: (a) depression and anxiety symptoms related to Covid-19 symptoms; (b) perceived social support and Covid-19 stress; (c) family support and psychological distress related to Covid-19; (d) Covid-19 stress and disordered eating, and (e) problem drinking and substance abuse associated with Covid-19 stress. Discussion The present review indicated a negative association between Covid-19 stress and psychological distress among sexual and gender minority individuals. The findings have important implications for psychologists and social workers working with this population and policymakers around the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumona Datta
- Department of Psychology, Government General Degree College, Singur, Hooghly, India
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11
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Baker E, Gilbert PA, Wheldon CW, Vanderheyden BB. Predictors of Empirically Derived Substance Use Patterns Among Sexual and Gender Minority Populations of a Rural Midwestern State. LGBT Health 2023; 10:62-71. [PMID: 35947865 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2022.0025] [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: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The study purpose was to (1) identify latent classes of substance use behaviors among a sample of sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults living in a predominantly rural midwestern state and (2) determine the association between SGM-related discrimination and the empirically derived substance use classes. Methods: We conducted a latent class analysis on 494 responses to a state-wide survey, followed by a multinomial logistic regression to test predictors of class membership, including distal experiences of discrimination and sociodemographic variables. Results: A three-class model fit best and included (1) polysubstance use, (2) binge drinking, and (3) no/low use classes. In the adjusted model, polysubstance class membership was positively associated with cisgender male identity and negatively associated with being 60 years of age or older and college educated. Binge drinking class membership was negatively associated with bisexual/pansexual identity and non-White race/ethnicity. In contrast to hypothesized outcomes guided by the Minority Stress Model, experiences of discrimination were not associated with membership in substance-using classes. Likewise, bisexual/pansexual individuals were not more likely to be members of polysubstance use or binge drinking classes, despite published reports of greater risk of substance use. Conclusion: These contradictions warrant intersectional approaches to advance substance use research, which may provide important evidence for targeted prevention/treatment interventions, particularly among polysubstance users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Baker
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Des Moines University, Des Moines, Iowa, USA
| | - Paul A Gilbert
- Department of Community and Behavioral Health, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
| | - Christopher W Wheldon
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brian B Vanderheyden
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Des Moines University, Des Moines, Iowa, USA
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Dyar C, Feinstein BA, Newcomb ME, Whitton SW. The Association Between Bi+ Stigma and Problematic Cannabis Use: Testing Coping Motives as an Underlying Mechanism. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2022; 83:126-133. [PMID: 35040768 PMCID: PMC8819895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bi+ individuals (i.e., people with attractions to more than one gender) are at heightened risk for cannabis use disorders compared with heterosexual and lesbian/gay individuals, and their heightened risk has been attributed to the unique stressors that they experience as bi+ individuals. Limited research has quantitatively examined the association between enacted bi+ stigma (i.e., biased treatment by others based on one's bi+ identity/attractions) and cannabis use problems among bi+ individuals. Existing studies have been limited by their cross-sectional designs and their lack of attention to potential mechanisms underlying this association. METHOD We used four waves of data (6 months between waves) from 317 bi+ individuals assigned female at birth who reported cannabis use. The goals of our analyses were to examine (a) the prospective association between enacted bi+ stigma and problematic cannabis use; and (b) coping motives (i.e., motivations to use cannabis to cope with negative emotions) as a mediator of this association. RESULTS At the within-person level, when participants experienced more enacted bi+ stigma than usual at a given wave (time t-2), they experienced a subsequent increase in their motivation to use cannabis to cope (time t-1), which in turn, predicted a subsequent increase in problematic cannabis use (time t). This within-person indirect effect was significant. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that enacted bi+ stigma contributes to problematic cannabis use by increasing motivations to use cannabis to cope with negative emotions. As such, coping motives may be an important treatment target to reduce problematic cannabis use among bi+ individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Dyar
- College of Nursing, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Brian A. Feinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois
| | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sarah W. Whitton
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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13
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Slemon A, Richardson C, Goodyear T, Salway T, Gadermann A, Oliffe JL, Knight R, Dhari S, Jenkins EK. Widening mental health and substance use inequities among sexual and gender minority populations: Findings from a repeated cross-sectional monitoring survey during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Psychiatry Res 2022; 307:114327. [PMID: 34923446 PMCID: PMC8647565 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines the mental health and substance use impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic among sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations as compared to non-SGM populations, and identifies risk factors for mental health and substance use impacts among SGM groups. Data were drawn from two rounds of a repeated cross-sectional monitoring survey of 6027 Canadian adults, with Round 1 conducted May 14-19, 2020 and Round 2 conducted September 14-21, 2020. Bivariate cross-tabulations with chi-square tests were utilized to identify differences in mental health and substance use outcomes between SGM and non-SGM groups. Separate multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors for mental health and substance use outcomes for all SGM respondents. Compared to non-SGM respondents, a greater proportion of SGM participants reported mental health and substance use impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, including deterioration in mental health, poor coping, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, alcohol and cannabis use, and use of substances to cope. Among SGM respondents, various risk factors, including having a pre-existing mental health condition, were identified as associated with mental health and substance use impacts. These widening inequities demonstrate the need for tailored public mental health actions during and beyond the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allie Slemon
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Chris Richardson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Trevor Goodyear
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Travis Salway
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby BC, Canada; British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Anne Gadermann
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada; The Human Early Learning Partnership, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - John L. Oliffe
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Rod Knight
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, Canada.
| | - Shivinder Dhari
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Emily K. Jenkins
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada,Corresponding author at: School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, T201-2211 Westbrook Mall, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 2B5
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14
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Dyar C, Feinstein BA, Newcomb ME, Whitton SW. The Association Between Bi+ Stigma and Problematic Cannabis Use: Testing Coping Motives as an Underlying Mechanism. J Stud Alcohol Drugs 2022; 83:126-133. [PMID: 35040768 PMCID: PMC8819895 DOI: 10.15288/jsad.2022.83.126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Bi+ individuals (i.e., people with attractions to more than one gender) are at heightened risk for cannabis use disorders compared with heterosexual and lesbian/gay individuals, and their heightened risk has been attributed to the unique stressors that they experience as bi+ individuals. Limited research has quantitatively examined the association between enacted bi+ stigma (i.e., biased treatment by others based on one's bi+ identity/attractions) and cannabis use problems among bi+ individuals. Existing studies have been limited by their cross-sectional designs and their lack of attention to potential mechanisms underlying this association. METHOD We used four waves of data (6 months between waves) from 317 bi+ individuals assigned female at birth who reported cannabis use. The goals of our analyses were to examine (a) the prospective association between enacted bi+ stigma and problematic cannabis use; and (b) coping motives (i.e., motivations to use cannabis to cope with negative emotions) as a mediator of this association. RESULTS At the within-person level, when participants experienced more enacted bi+ stigma than usual at a given wave (time t-2), they experienced a subsequent increase in their motivation to use cannabis to cope (time t-1), which in turn, predicted a subsequent increase in problematic cannabis use (time t). This within-person indirect effect was significant. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that enacted bi+ stigma contributes to problematic cannabis use by increasing motivations to use cannabis to cope with negative emotions. As such, coping motives may be an important treatment target to reduce problematic cannabis use among bi+ individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Dyar
- College of Nursing, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Brian A. Feinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, Illinois
| | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sarah W. Whitton
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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15
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Goodyear T, Slemon A, Richardson C, Gadermann A, Salway T, Dhari S, Knight R, Jenkins E. Increases in Alcohol and Cannabis Use Associated with Deteriorating Mental Health among LGBTQ2+ Adults in the Context of COVID-19: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Study in Canada, 2020-2021. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:12155. [PMID: 34831910 PMCID: PMC8620284 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, other queer, and Two-Spirit (LGBTQ2+) people are particularly at risk for the psycho-social consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, though population-tailored research within this context remains limited. This study examines the extent of, and associations between, increased alcohol and cannabis use and deteriorating mental health among LGBTQ2+ adults in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data are drawn from LGBTQ2+ respondents to a repeated, cross-sectional survey administered to adults living in Canada (May 2020-January 2021). Bivariate cross-tabulations and multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to examine associations between increased alcohol and cannabis use, and self-reported mental health, overall coping, and suicidal thoughts. Five-hundred and two LGBTQ2+ participants were included in this analysis. Of these, 24.5% reported increased alcohol use and 18.5% reported increased cannabis use due to the pandemic. In the adjusted analyses, increased alcohol use was associated with poor overall coping (OR = 2.28; 95% CI = 1.28-4.07) and worse self-reported mental health (OR = 1.98; 95% CI = 1.21-3.25), whereas increased cannabis use was associated with suicidal thoughts (OR = 2.30; 95% CI = 1.16-4.55). These findings underscore the need for population-tailored, integrated substance use and mental health supports to address interrelated increases in alcohol/cannabis use and worsening mental health among LGBTQ2+ adults, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor Goodyear
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; (T.G.); (A.S.); (S.D.)
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada;
| | - Allie Slemon
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; (T.G.); (A.S.); (S.D.)
| | - Chris Richardson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; (C.R.); (A.G.)
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Anne Gadermann
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada; (C.R.); (A.G.)
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- The Human Early Learning Partnership, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Travis Salway
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4, Canada;
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Shivinder Dhari
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; (T.G.); (A.S.); (S.D.)
| | - Rod Knight
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada;
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Emily Jenkins
- School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 2B5, Canada; (T.G.); (A.S.); (S.D.)
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Comparison of Polydrug Use Prevalences and Typologies between Men Who Have Sex with Men and General Population Men, in Madrid and Barcelona. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111609. [PMID: 34770122 PMCID: PMC8583212 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This study compares the prevalence of drug use and the typologies of polydrug use (PDU) in men who have sex with men (MSM) and general population men (GPM). Participants were men aged 16–64, living in the provinces of Madrid and Barcelona: 1720 were recruited in a GPM survey, and 2658 were HIV-negative MSM from HIV/STIs diagnosis services. Lifetime and last-year prevalence of drug use and prevalence ratios (PRs) of MSM to GPM for the different drugs were calculated using Poisson regression. Latent class analysis (LCA) was performed to identify typologies of PDU. Lifetime use of the drugs considered was higher in MSM, and even higher for drug use in the last-year: PRs for cannabis, hallucinogens and cocaine ranged from 2–5; for amphetamine, ecstasy and methamphetamine 12–16; and above 60 for ketamine, GHB/GBL, inhalants and mephedrone. In the LCA for lifetime PDU four classes arose from the GPM (No-PDU (79.6%); Conventional PDU (13.8%); Intensive conventional PDU (4.9%); Heavy PDU (1.8%)) and four among MSM (No-PDU (57.7%); Conventional PDU plus poppers (18.8%); PDU preferring chemsex drugs (6.4%); Heavy PDU (17.2%)). For PDU during the last-year, three classes arose in the GPM: No-PDU (94.7%); Conventional PDU (4.3%); Heavy PDU (0.9%). For MSM, we identified four classes: No-PDU (64.7%); Conventional PDU plus poppers (15.6%); PDU preferring chemsex drugs (6.2%); Heavy PDU (13.5%). MSM should be considered a priority group for the prevention of the use of all drugs but the heterogeneity of PDU typologies regarding users’ preference towards conventional and/or sexualised drugs needs to be taken into account.
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17
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Cannabis use companions' gender and sexual orientation: Associations with problematic cannabis use in a sample of sexual minorities assigned female at birth. Addict Behav 2021; 118:106878. [PMID: 33652333 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2021.106878] [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: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual minority women (SMW) are at heightened risk for problematic cannabis use compared to heterosexual women. Social learning theory posits that characteristics of one's cannabis use companions influence problematic use. However, most research on cannabis use among sexual minorities has focused on minority stress and not social learning theory. As such, the current study tested whether characteristics of one's cannabis use companions (gender and sexual orientation) were associated with changes in problematic use among cisgender SMW and non-binary individuals assigned female at birth. METHODS We utilized three waves of data (six-months between waves) from 321 cisgender SMW and sexual minority non-binary individuals assigned female at birth who participated in a larger study and reported using cannabis during at least one wave. We examined the prospective associations between using cannabis with five groups (SMW, sexual minority men, non-binary individuals, heterosexual women, and heterosexual men) and changes in problematic use six-months later. We also examined whether participant gender (cisgender woman vs. non-binary individual) moderated these associations. RESULTS Among cisgender SMW and sexual minority non-binary individuals, using cannabis with SMW and non-binary individuals, but not with sexual minority men, heterosexual men, or women, was associated with increases in problematic use six-months later. Gender did not moderate any associations between using cannabis with any group and problematic use. CONCLUSIONS Consistent with social learning theory, using cannabis with similar others was associated with increases in problematic use among cisgender SMW and sexual minority non-binary individuals. Future research should explore the mechanisms underlying these effects.
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Vidourek RA, Yockey RA, King KA, Oliver A. Recent Marijuana Use Among Young Adults, 2015–2018, USA. Int J Ment Health Addict 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-021-00566-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Dyar C, Feinstein BA, Crosby S, Newcomb ME, Whitton SW. Social Context of Cannabis Use: Associations with Problematic Use, Motives for Use, and Protective Behavioral Strategies among Sexual Minorities Assigned Female at Birth. ANNALS OF LGBTQ PUBLIC AND POPULATION HEALTH 2021; 2:299-314. [PMID: 34993507 PMCID: PMC8729452 DOI: 10.1891/lgbtq-2020-0075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minorities assigned female at birth (SGM-AFAB) are at heightened risk for problematic cannabis use compared to heterosexual cisgender women. Despite evidence that social context influences patterns of substance use, no known studies have examined context of cannabis use among SGM-AFAB. The current study examined two aspects of social contexts of cannabis use (locations and companions) and their associations with problematic use, motives for use, and protective behavioral strategies among SGM-AFAB. We utilized three waves of data from 358 SGM-AFAB from a larger study. We aimed to: (1) identify subgroups of SGM-AFAB based on contexts in which they used cannabis; (2) examine changes in contexts over time; and (3) examine associations between contexts, problematic use, motives for use, and protective behavioral strategies. Using latent class analysis, we identified four classes: those who used cannabis at home; those who used with friends; those who used alone and with friends; and those who used in all contexts. Those who used in all contexts reported more problematic use, higher coping motives, and used fewer protective behavioral strategies compared to other classes. Transitioning to using cannabis in fewer contexts was associated with a subsequent decrease in problematic use. Classes that were most stable over time (using in all contexts or alone and with friends) were also those that were associated with more problematic use. Social context has important implications for problematic cannabis use among SGM-AFAB. As such, interventions may benefit from attending to social context to reduce problematic use in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Dyar
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
| | - Brian A. Feinstein
- Department of Psychology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
| | - Shariell Crosby
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
| | - Michael E. Newcomb
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
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Schuler MS, Collins RL. Sexual minority substance use disparities: Bisexual women at elevated risk relative to other sexual minority groups. Drug Alcohol Depend 2020; 206:107755. [PMID: 31810051 PMCID: PMC6980764 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.107755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prior studies characterizing sexual minority substance use disparities have primarily compared lesbian/gay and bisexual individuals, respectively or in combination, to heterosexual individuals. In light of emerging evidence that bisexual individuals may have particularly elevated substance use risk, we examine differences in recent substance use between bisexual and lesbian/gay individuals using national survey data. METHODS Data on 126,463 adults (including 8241 LGB adults) were from the 2015-2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Substance use outcomes included binge drinking, cigarette smoking, cigar smoking, marijuana use, illicit drug use, opioid misuse, alcohol use disorder, nicotine dependence, and substance use disorder. Logistic regression was used to estimate sexual identity- and gender-specific odds ratios, controlling for demographic characteristics. Of particular interest were estimates comparing bisexual and lesbian/gay individuals of the same gender. RESULTS Both male and female sexual minority adults had significantly elevated rates of substance use compared to heterosexual adults. Furthermore, relative to lesbian/gay women, bisexual women had significantly elevated odds of binge drinking (aOR = 1.29), marijuana use (aOR = 1.42), illicit drug use (aOR = 1.55), opioid misuse (aOR = 1.53), and alcohol use disorder (aOR = 1.48). Relative to gay men, bisexual men had significantly elevated cigar use (aOR = 1.64). CONCLUSIONS Bisexual women were at significantly greater risk for multiple substance use behaviors relative to lesbian/gay women. We did not observe any substance use behaviors for which bisexual individuals had significantly lower risk than their lesbian/gay peers. These disparities may be explained, in part, by unique risk factors for substance use experienced by bisexual individuals, particularly bisexual women.
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