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Fortier A, Zouaoui I, Dumais A, Potvin S. Effects of Recreational Cannabis Legalization on Mental Health: Scoping Review. Psychiatr Serv 2024:appips20230434. [PMID: 38650490 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.20230434] [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: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recreational cannabis legalization (RCL) is expanding rapidly. RCL's effects on mental health issues are of particular concern because cannabis use is more frequent among people receiving psychiatric care and is associated with several psychiatric disorders. The authors conducted a scoping review to examine the evidence and discern gaps in the literature concerning the effects of RCL on mental health and to assess the factors responsible for an observed heterogeneity in research results. METHODS This scoping literature review followed PRISMA guidelines. Five databases-MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, APA PsycInfo, and Web of Science-were searched for English- or French-language reports published between January 1, 2012, and April 30, 2023. RESULTS Twenty-eight studies from the United States and Canada were found. The studies were classified by category of the study's data (patients receiving psychiatric care [k=1], death records [k=4], emergency department or hospital records [k=10], and the general population [k=13]) and by the diagnosis (schizophrenia or psychoses, mood disorders, anxiety disorders and symptoms, suicide or suicidal ideation, or other mental health issues) examined. The review findings revealed a paucity of research and indicated mixed and largely inconclusive results of the studies examined. Research gaps were found in the examination of potential changes in cannabis use patterns among people receiving psychiatric care and in the availability of longitudinal studies. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians, researchers, and policy makers need to collaborate to address the research gaps and to develop evidence-based policies that reflect a thorough understanding of the effects associated with RCL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Fortier
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, and Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal
| | - Inès Zouaoui
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, and Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal
| | - Alexandre Dumais
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, and Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal
| | - Stéphane Potvin
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, and Centre de Recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal
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2
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Jiménez JH, Oña G, Alcázar-Córcoles MÁ, Bouso JC. Cannabis and Public Health: A Study Assessing Regular Cannabis Users Through Health Indicators. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:659-668. [PMID: 36637397 DOI: 10.1089/can.2022.0231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Objective: An increasing number of countries are deciding to regulate the medicinal and/or recreational use of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.). However, there is a lack of information on the impact of regular consumption of this substance on public health. In this study, for the first time, regular cannabis consumers in Spain were assessed using health indicators, comparing these data with the general population. Methods: Various items of the Enquesta de Salut de Catalunya (ESCA) and other items related to cannabis use were selected to build a survey and administer it to a representative sample of regular cannabis users in Catalonia. Results: Most of the indicators did not show any deterioration in the health of regular cannabis users compared with the general population. It was observed that users suffered from more sleep problems and about 40% of the sample would like to discontinue cannabis use, suggesting a dependence pattern. About 30% of the sample was able to discontinue the use of prescription medications because of cannabis. Social support and sleep problems, and not cannabis use, were predictors of depression and well-being scores. Conclusions: It seems that regular cannabis use, despite contributing to problems related to sleep quality or dependence, does not have a negative impact on public health in a manner detectable using health indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Hidalgo Jiménez
- International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service (ICEERS), Barcelona, España
| | - Genís Oña
- International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service (ICEERS), Barcelona, España
- Department of Anthropology, Philosophy and Social Work, Medical Anthropology Research Center (MARC), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, España
| | - Miguel Ángel Alcázar-Córcoles
- Department of Biological and Health Psychology, School of Psychology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Carlos Bouso
- International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service (ICEERS), Barcelona, España
- Department of Anthropology, Philosophy and Social Work, Medical Anthropology Research Center (MARC), Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, España
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3
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Sevigny EL, Greathouse J, Medhin DN. Health, safety, and socioeconomic impacts of cannabis liberalization laws: An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2023; 19:e1362. [PMID: 37915420 PMCID: PMC10616541 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Background Globally, cannabis laws and regulations are rapidly changing. Countries are increasingly permitting access to cannabis under various decriminalization, medicalization, and legalization laws. With strong economic, public health, and social justice incentives driving these domestic cannabis policy reforms, liberalization trends are bound to continue. However, despite a large and growing body of interdisciplinary research addressing the policy-relevant health, safety, and socioeconomic consequences of cannabis liberalization, there is a lack of robust primary and systematic research that comprehensively investigates the consequences of these reforms. Objectives This evidence and gap map (EGM) summarizes the empirical evidence on cannabis liberalization policies. Primary objectives were to develop a conceptual framework linking cannabis liberalization policies to relevant outcomes, descriptively summarize the empirical evidence, and identify areas of evidence concentration and gaps. Search Methods We comprehensively searched for eligible English-language empirical studies published across 23 academic databases and 11 gray literature sources through August 2020. Additions to the pool of potentially eligible studies from supplemental sources were made through November 2020. Selection Criteria The conceptual framework for this EGM draws upon a legal epidemiological perspective highlighting the causal effects of law and policy on population-level outcomes. Eligible interventions include policies that create or expand access to a legal or decriminalized supply of cannabis: comprehensive medical cannabis laws (MCLs), limited medical cannabidiol laws (CBDLs), recreational cannabis laws (RCLs), industrial hemp laws (IHLs), and decriminalization of cultivations laws (DCLs). Eligible outcomes include intermediate responses (i.e., attitudes/behaviors and markets/environments) and longer-term consequences (health, safety, and socioeconomic outcomes) of these laws. Data Collection and Analysis Both dual screening and dual data extraction were performed with third person deconfliction. Primary studies were appraised using the Maryland Scientific Methods Scale and systematic reviews were assessed using AMSTAR 2. Main Results The EGM includes 447 studies, comprising 438 primary studies and nine systematic reviews. Most research derives from the United States, with little research from other countries. By far, most cannabis liberalization research focuses on the effects of MCLs and RCLs. Studies targeting other laws-including CBDLs, IHLs, and DCLs-are relatively rare. Of the 113 distinct outcomes we documented, cannabis use was the single most frequently investigated. More than half these outcomes were addressed by three or fewer studies, highlighting substantial evidence gaps in the literature. The systematic evidence base is relatively small, comprising just seven completed reviews on cannabis use (3), opioid-related harms (3), and alcohol-related outcomes (1). Moreover, we have limited confidence in the reviews, as five were appraised as minimal quality and two as low quality. Authors’ Conclusions More primary and systematic research is needed to better understand the effects of cannabis liberalization laws on longer-term-and arguably more salient-health, safety, and socioeconomic outcomes. Since most research concerns MCLs and RCLs, there is a critical need for research on the societal impacts of industrial hemp production, medical CBD products, and decriminalized cannabis cultivation. Future research should also prioritize understanding the heterogeneous effects of these laws given differences in specific provisions and implementation across jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric L. Sevigny
- Department of Criminal Justice and CriminologyGeorgia State UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Jared Greathouse
- Department of Criminal Justice and CriminologyGeorgia State UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Danye N. Medhin
- Department of Criminal Justice and CriminologyGeorgia State UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
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4
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Bahji A, Socias ME, Bach P, Milloy M. Implications of Cannabis Legalization on Substance-Related Benefits and Harms for People Who Use Opioids: A Canadian Perspective. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2023; 8:699-702. [PMID: 37001172 PMCID: PMC10623062 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0031] [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: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2018, Canada enacted the Cannabis Act, becoming only the second country (after Uruguay) to legalize the recreational consumption of cannabis. Although there is ongoing global disagreement on the risk-benefit profile of cannabis with increasing legalization in many parts of the world, the evidence of rising cannabis use prevalence postlegalization has been consistent. In contrast, postlegalization changes in various cannabis-related metrics have been inconsistent in Canada and other parts of the world. Furthermore, the implications of cannabis legalization on substance-related harms and benefits for people who use unregulated drugs, particularly opioids, remain unclear. Finally, although Canada did not legalize cannabis to address the opioid crisis, there is rising scientific and popular interest in the therapeutic potential of cannabis to mitigate opioid-related harms. This perspective highlights the implications of cannabis legalization on substance-related benefits and harms for people who use opioids, the current state of Canadian research, and suggestions for future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anees Bahji
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
| | - M. Eugenia Socias
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Paxton Bach
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - M.J. Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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5
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Preteroti M, Wilson ET, Eidelman DH, Baglole CJ. Modulation of pulmonary immune function by inhaled cannabis products and consequences for lung disease. Respir Res 2023; 24:95. [PMID: 36978106 PMCID: PMC10043545 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02399-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The lungs, in addition to participating in gas exchange, represent the first line of defense against inhaled pathogens and respiratory toxicants. Cells lining the airways and alveoli include epithelial cells and alveolar macrophages, the latter being resident innate immune cells important in surfactant recycling, protection against bacterial invasion and modulation of lung immune homeostasis. Environmental exposure to toxicants found in cigarette smoke, air pollution and cannabis can alter the number and function of immune cells in the lungs. Cannabis (marijuana) is a plant-derived product that is typically inhaled in the form of smoke from a joint. However, alternative delivery methods such as vaping, which heats the plant without combustion, are becoming more common. Cannabis use has increased in recent years, coinciding with more countries legalizing cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes. Cannabis may have numerous health benefits owing to the presence of cannabinoids that dampen immune function and therefore tame inflammation that is associated with chronic diseases such as arthritis. The health effects that could come with cannabis use remain poorly understood, particularly inhaled cannabis products that may directly impact the pulmonary immune system. Herein, we first describe the bioactive phytochemicals present in cannabis, with an emphasis on cannabinoids and their ability to interact with the endocannabinoid system. We also review the current state-of-knowledge as to how inhaled cannabis/cannabinoids can shape immune response in the lungs and discuss the potential consequences of altered pulmonary immunity. Overall, more research is needed to understand how cannabis inhalation shapes the pulmonary immune response to balance physiological and beneficial responses with potential deleterious consequences on the lungs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Preteroti
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Emily T Wilson
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David H Eidelman
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Carolyn J Baglole
- Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001 Decarie Blvd., Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada.
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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6
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Association Between Cannabis and Violence in Community-Dwelling Patients With Severe Mental Disorders: A Cross-sectional Study Using Machine Learning. J Nerv Ment Dis 2023; 211:88-94. [PMID: 36716062 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this cross-sectional study was to identify cannabis-related features and other characteristics predictive of violence using a data-driven approach in patients with severe mental disorders (SMDs). A Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regularization regression model was used on the database consisting of 97 patients with SMD who completed questionnaires measuring substance use and violence. Cannabis use, particularly related to patients' decision to consume or time spent using, was a key predictor associated with violence. Other patterns of substance use and personality traits were identified as strong predictors. Regular patterns of cannabis use and interpersonal issues related to cannabis/stimulant abuse were inversely correlated to violence. This study identified the effect of several predictors correlated to violence in patients with SMD using a regularization regression model. Findings open the door to better identify the profiles of patients that may be more susceptible to perpetrate violent behaviors.
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Daldegan-Bueno D, Lindner SR, Kovaleski D, Fischer B. Cannabis use, risk behaviours and harms in Brazil: A comprehensive review of available data indicators. Drug Alcohol Rev 2023; 42:318-336. [PMID: 36443987 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
ISSUES Cannabis use and related health/social outcome indicator data for Brazil-where non-medical cannabis is generally illegal-are limited. APPROACH Towards a comprehensive overview of relevant indicators, we searched primary databases by combining MeSH-index terms related to cannabis, geographic location and subtopic terms (e.g., use, health, mortality) focusing on cannabis use and key outcome indicators in Brazil since 2010. In addition, relevant 'grey literature' (e.g., survey reports) was identified. Key indicator data were mainly narratively summarised. KEY FINDINGS Overall, cannabis use has increased somewhat since pre-2010, with (past-year) use rates measured at 2-3% for general population adults, yet 5% or higher among youth and/or (e.g., post-secondary) student populations. For key risk behaviours, the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol-positivity among motor-vehicle drivers has been measured at <2%. While the prevalence of cannabis use disorder appears to have decreased, the relative proportion of treatment provided for cannabis-related problems increased. National- and local-based studies indicated an association of cannabis use with mental health harms, including depression and suicidality. Although some non-representative and/or local studies contain information, other monitoring data, including cannabis-related risks and harms (e.g., cannabis-related driving, mortality, hospitalisations), are limited in availability. IMPLICATIONS AND CONCLUSION The prevalence of cannabis use in Brazil is comparably low (e.g., relative to elsewhere in the Americas). Data on numerous key cannabis-related indicators is absent, or limited in scope for Brazil. Considering ongoing evolutions in cannabis control and its status as the most common illicit drug, more comprehensive surveillance of cannabis use and related outcomes is advised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Daldegan-Bueno
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Sheila R Lindner
- Department of Public Health, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Douglas Kovaleski
- Department of Public Health, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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8
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Athanassiou M, Dumais A, Zouaoui I, Potvin S. The clouded debate: A systematic review of comparative longitudinal studies examining the impact of recreational cannabis legalization on key public health outcomes. Front Psychiatry 2023; 13:1060656. [PMID: 36713920 PMCID: PMC9874703 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1060656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ineffective cannabis regulatory frameworks such as prohibition have sparked interest in alternative solutions to reduce individual and societal harms. While it has been suggested that the recreational legalization process has yielded early successes, the relatively recent implementation of the novel policies has provided a modest time frame for a truly thorough establishment and assessment of key population-level indicators. The following systematic review focuses on identifying the downstream public health sequelae of cannabis legalization policies, including parameters such as cannabis consumption rates, hospitalization rates, vehicular accidents and fatalities, criminal activity, and suicidal behaviors, as well as other substance use trends. Methods An exhaustive search of the MEDLINE and Google Scholar databases were performed to identify high-quality (1) longitudinal studies, which (2) compared key public health outcomes between regions which had and had not implemented recreational cannabis legalization (RML) policies, (3) using distinct databases and/or time frames. Thirty-two original research articles were retained for review. Results Adult past-month cannabis consumption (26+ years) seems to have significantly increased following RML, whereas young adult (18-26 years) and adolescent (12-17 years) populations do not show a significant rise in past-month cannabis use. RML shows preliminary trends in increasing service use (such as hospitalizations, emergency department visits, or poisonings) or vehicular traffic fatalities. Preliminary evidence suggests that RML is related to potential increases in serious/violent crimes, and heterogeneous effects on suicidal behaviors. While the research does not illustrate that RML is linked to changing consumptions patterns of cigarette, stimulant, or opioid use, alcohol use may be on the rise, and opioid prescribing patterns are shown to be significantly correlated with RML. Conclusion The current data supports the notion that RML is correlated with altered cannabis consumption in adults, potentially increased criminal activity, and a decline in opioid quantities and prescriptions provided to patients. Future work should address additional knowledge gaps for vulnerable populations, such as individuals with mental health problems or persons consuming cannabis frequently/at higher THC doses. The effects of varying legalization models should also be evaluated for their potentially differing impacts on population-level outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Athanassiou
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Dumais
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Philippe-Pinel National Institute of Legal Psychiatry, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Inès Zouaoui
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphane Potvin
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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9
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Boury H, Hall W, Fischer B. Developments and Changes in Primary Public Health Outcome Indicators Associated with the Legalization of Non-Medical Cannabis Use and Supply in Canada (2018): A Comprehensive Overview. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022:1-15. [PMID: 36589471 PMCID: PMC9794107 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00986-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Canada legalized non-medical cannabis use and supply for adults in 2018. We examined developments and changes associated with the legalization policy reform on key indicators for public health, namely cannabis (including frequent/problematic) use prevalence, cannabis-related hospitalizations, cannabis-impaired driving, and cannabis sourcing. We identified peer-reviewed and "grey" study data that featured population-level or other quasi-representative samples and comparable outcome data for pre- and post-legalization periods, including possible trends of changes over time. Cannabis use has increased in select population groups, with use modes shifting away from smoking. Evidence on cannabis-related hospitalizations (e.g., for mental health) is mixed. The prevalence of cannabis-impaired driving appears to be generally steady but THC exposure among crash-involved drivers may have increased. Increasing proportions of users obtain cannabis products from legal sources but some-especially regular-users continue to use illicit sources. Overall, data suggest a mixed and inconclusive picture on cannabis legalization's impacts on essential public health indicators, including select extensions in trends from pre-legalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himani Boury
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Suite 2400, 515 W. Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3 Canada
- School of Public Health, Queens University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Wayne Hall
- Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, University of Queensland, 17 Upland Road, St Lucia, Australia
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Simon Fraser University, Suite 2400, 515 W. Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3 Canada
- School of Population Health, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, R. Sena Madureira, São Paulo, 1500 Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 250 College Street, Toronto, ON M5S2S1 Canada
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10
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Beneria A, Santesteban-Echarri O, Daigre C, Tremain H, Ramos-Quiroga JA, McGorry PD, Alvarez-Jimenez M. Online interventions for cannabis use among adolescents and young adults: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Early Interv Psychiatry 2022; 16:821-844. [PMID: 34464502 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young people present high rates of cannabis use, abuse, and dependence. The United Nations estimates that roughly 3.8% of the global population aged 15-64 years used cannabis at least once in 2017. Cannabis use in young people may impair cognitive skills, interfere with learning, impact relationships, and lead to long term behavioural and psychological consequences. Online cannabis interventions (OCI) are increasingly popular, but their dissemination is not often supported by empirical evidence. AIM To systematically compile and analyse the effectiveness of OCI for the reduction of cannabis use among adolescents and young adults (AYA). METHODS Pooled effect sizes of cannabis use between treatment and control groups were estimated. For each comparison, Hedge's g was calculated using a random effects model. RESULTS The search strategy yielded 4531 articles. Of those, a total of 411 articles were retrieved for detailed evaluation resulting in 17 eligible studies (n = 3525). Analyses revealed that online interventions did not significantly reduce cannabis consumption (Hedge's g = -0.061, 95% CI [-0.363] to [-0.242], p = .695) and high heterogeneity was noted (Q = 191.290). More recent studies using structured interventions, daily feedback, AYA centred designs, and peer support, specifically targeting CU seemed to have positive effects to address CU in this population. CONCLUSIONS The lack of positive outcomes suggests that more specific and targeted interventions may be necessary to promote cannabis-related behavioural change among young people. These targeted interventions may include structured CU modules, daily feedback, peer support for increased adherence, user-centred design procedures, and input from key stakeholders such as families and service providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Beneria
- Department of Psychiatry, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictions, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Olga Santesteban-Echarri
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- The Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Constanza Daigre
- Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictions, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Hailey Tremain
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia. Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Josep Antoni Ramos-Quiroga
- Department of Psychiatry, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Group of Psychiatry, Mental Health and Addictions, Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Biomedical Network Research Centre on Mental Health (CIBERSAM), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Patrick D McGorry
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia. Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mario Alvarez-Jimenez
- Orygen, Parkville, Australia. Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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11
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Dellazizzo L, Potvin S, Giguère S, Dumais A. Evidence on the acute and residual neurocognitive effects of cannabis use in adolescents and adults: a systematic meta-review of meta-analyses. Addiction 2022; 117:1857-1870. [PMID: 35048456 DOI: 10.1111/add.15764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis is among the most consumed psychoactive substances world-wide. Considering changing policy trends regarding the substance, it is crucial to understand more clearly its potential acute and residual adverse effects from a public health viewpoint. Cognitive function is one of the targeted areas with conflicting findings. This meta-review measured the magnitude of acute and residual effects of cannabis on cognition in adolescents and adults provided by meta-analyses and evaluated quality of evidence. METHODS A systematic search was performed in PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Meta-analyses were included if they quantitatively examined the performances of users from the general population on cognitive tasks. RESULTS The search retrieved 10 eligible meta-analyses (71 effects sizes, n = 43 761) with evidence ranging from low to moderate quality, which were categorized into domains of cognitive functions: executive functions (k = 7), learning and memory (k = 5), attention (k = 4), processing speed (k = 5), perceptual motor function (k = 2) and language (k = 2). Verbal learning and memory displayed the most robust evidence and were most impaired by acute cannabis intoxication that persisted after intoxication passed. Small-to-moderate acute and residual adverse effects were reported for executive functioning. Cannabis use led to small deficits in inhibitory processes and flexibility, whereas small-to-moderate deficits were reported for working memory and decision-making. Evidence regarding processing speed and attention has shown that cannabis administration induced small-to-moderate adverse effects and residual neurocognitive deficits were observed in heavy cannabis-using youths. Results showed no significant difference between cannabis users and non-users on language, and small-to-moderate effects for simple motor skills. CONCLUSION Meta-analytical data on the acute effects of cannabis use on neurocognitive function have shown that cannabis intoxication leads to small to moderate deficits in several cognitive domains. These acute impairments accord with documented residual effects, suggesting that the detrimental effects of cannabis persist beyond acute intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Dellazizzo
- Research center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Stéphane Potvin
- Research center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sabrina Giguère
- Research center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Alexandre Dumais
- Research center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,Institut national de psychiatrie légale Philippe-Pinel, Montreal, Canada
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12
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Jordan A, Sherazi A, Flewelling AJ, Northrup V, Naseemuddin A, Shea JL. Identification of cannabinoids in post-mortem blood samples from the province of New Brunswick before and after recreational cannabis legalization. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2022; 103:103629. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2022.103629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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13
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Klimas J, Mok WY, Lake S, Eugenia Socías M, DeBeck K, Hayashi K, Wood E, Milloy MJ. Prevalence and correlates of intentional substance use to reduce illicit opioid use in a Canadian setting. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2022; 27:277-282. [PMID: 35685454 PMCID: PMC9173654 DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2021.1941341] [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: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Background While preliminary evidence has begun to document intentional use of one substance to reduce the use of another, the phenomenon of drug substitution among people who use illicit opioids remains understudied. Therefore, we sought to estimate the prevalence and correlates of intentional substance use to reduce illicit opioid use among persons who use drugs (PWUD). Methods We analysed data from three prospective cohorts of PWUD in Vancouver, Canada, using multivariable generalized estimating equations (GEE). Results Between June 2012 and June 2016, 1527 participants were recruited and contributed 4991 interviews. Of those, 336 (22%) illicit opioid-using participants self-reported substitution to reduce illicit opioid use at least once during study period contributing 467 (9.4%) interviews. Among those interviews, substances substituted for opioids were alcohol (15 participants, 3.2%), stimulants (235, 50.3%), cannabis (129, 27.6%), benzodiazepines (21, 4.5%), and others (20, 4.3%). In multivariable GEE model adjusted for socio-demographic factors, reporting substitution to reduce illicit opioid use was positively associated with greater likelihood of daily cannabis use (Adjusted Odds Ratio = 1.56, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.24-1.96]. Conclusions While daily cannabis use was associated with reporting opioid substitution attempts, additional study is needed to examine potential of cannabis/cannabinoids to reduce illicit opioid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Klimas
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6,School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Health Sciences Centre, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Wing Yin Mok
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Stephanie Lake
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
| | - M. Eugenia Socías
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6,School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, 515 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 5K3
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6,Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Blusson Hall, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Evan Wood
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, 400-1045 Howe Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6,Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, St. Paul’s Hospital, 608-1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, CANADA, V6Z 1Y6
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14
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Daldegan-Bueno D, Lindner SR, Fischer B. Conceptualizing and considering Cannabis-Related "Harm-to-Others": The Role of Cannabis-Related Violence. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 57:1488-1491. [PMID: 35730558 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2086698] [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: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Public health-oriented frameworks for cannabis use of control, including legalization, are evolving. Most frameworks aim to reduce cannabis-related health harms that materialize among users; there has been comparably limited focus on cannabis-related "harm-to-others". A longstanding issue for other psychoactive substances, and increasingly recognized form of cannabis-related harm-to-others involves violence/aggression. We briefly review relevant epidemiological and psycho-behavioral data related to cannabis-related violence and aggression, and discuss intervention prospects. Systematic review and other study data show a moderately positive association between cannabis use and perpetration of physical (including intimate-partner) violence, for example involving assault, aggression, and fighting; this risk may be further elevated by intensive use patterns. Such harms may involve injuries/deaths and contribute to the cannabis-related burden of disease. Within the contexts of public health-oriented frameworks for cannabis control, greater awareness and targeted interventions regarding the risk for exposure to violence related to cannabis use should be promoted in addition to protections for users' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Daldegan-Bueno
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sheila Rubia Lindner
- Department of Public Health, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Benedikt Fischer
- Centre for Applied Research in Mental Health and Addiction, Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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15
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Clearing the air: A study of cannabis-related presentations to urban Alberta emergency departments following legalization. CAN J EMERG MED 2021; 22:776-783. [PMID: 32616094 DOI: 10.1017/cem.2020.384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Non-medical cannabis recently became legal for adults in Canada. Legalization provides opportunity to investigate the public health effects of national cannabis legalization on presentations to emergency departments (EDs). Our study aimed to explore association between cannabis-related ED presentations, poison control and telemedicine calls, and cannabis legalization. METHODS Data were collected from the National Ambulatory Care Reporting System from October 1, 2013, to July 31, 2019, for 14 urban Alberta EDs, from Alberta poison control, and from HealthLink, a public telehealth service covering all of Alberta. Visitation data were obtained to compare pre- and post-legalization periods. An interrupted time-series analysis accounting for existing trends was completed, in addition to the incidence rate ratio (IRR) and relative risk calculation (to evaluate changes in co-diagnoses). RESULTS Although only 3 of every 1,000 ED visits within the time period were attributed to cannabis, the number of cannabis-related ED presentations increased post-legalization by 3.1 (range -11.5 to 12.6) visits per ED per month (IRR 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]; 1.39, 1.51; absolute level change: 43.5 visits per month, 95% CI; 26.5, 60.4). Cannabis-related calls to poison control also increased (IRR 1.87, 95% CI; 1.55, 2.37; absolute level change: 4.0 calls per month, 95% CI; 0.1, 7.9). Lastly, we observed increases in cannabis-related hyperemesis, unintentional ingestion, and individuals leaving the ED pre-treatment. We also observed a decrease in co-ingestant use. CONCLUSION Overall, Canadian cannabis legalization was associated with small increases in urban Alberta cannabis-related ED visits and calls to a poison control centre.
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Matthay EC, Kiang MV, Elser H, Schmidt L, Humphreys K. Evaluation of State Cannabis Laws and Rates of Self-harm and Assault. JAMA Netw Open 2021; 4:e211955. [PMID: 33734416 PMCID: PMC7974641 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.1955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance State cannabis laws are changing rapidly. Research is inconclusive about their association with rates of self-harm and assault. Existing studies have not considered variations in cannabis commercialization across states over time. Objective To evaluate the association of state medical and recreational cannabis laws with self-harm and assault, overall and by age and sex, while considering varying degrees of commercialization. Design, Setting, and Participants Using a cohort design with panel fixed-effects analysis, within-state changes in claims for self-harm and assault injuries before and after changes in cannabis laws were quantified in all 50 US states and the District of Columbia. Comprehensive claims data on commercial and Medicare Advantage health plan beneficiaries from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2017, grouped by state and month, were evaluated. Data analysis was conducted from January 31, 2020, to January 21, 2021. Exposures Categorical variable that indexed the degree of cannabis legalization in each state and month based on law type (medical or recreational) and operational status of dispensaries (commercialization). Main Outcomes and Measures Claims for self-harm and assault injuries based on International Classification of Diseases codes. Results The analysis included 75 395 344 beneficiaries (mean [SD] age, 47 [22] years; 50% female; and median follow-up, 17 months [interquartile range, 8-36 months]). During the study period, 29 states permitted use of medical cannabis and 11 permitted recreational cannabis. Point estimates for populationwide rates of self-harm and assault injuries were higher in states legalizing recreational cannabis compared with states with no cannabis laws, but these results were not statistically significant (adjusted rate ratio [aRR] assault, recreational dispensaries: 1.27; 95% CI, 0.79-2.03;self-harm, recreational dispensaries aRR: 1.15; 95% CI, 0.89-1.50). Results varied by age and sex with no associations found except for states with recreational policies and self-harm among males younger than 40 years (aRR <21 years, recreational without dispensaries: 1.70; 95% CI, 1.11-2.61; aRR aged 21-39 years, recreational dispensaries: 1.46; 95% CI, 1.01-2.12). Medical cannabis was generally not associated with self-harm or assault injuries populationwide or among age and sex subgroups. Conclusions and Relevance Recreational cannabis legalization appears to be associated with relative increases in rates of claims for self-harm among male health plan beneficiaries younger than 40 years. There was no association between cannabis legalization and self-harm or assault, for any other age and sex group or for medical cannabis. States that legalize but still constrain commercialization may be better positioned to protect younger male populations from unintended harms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mathew V. Kiang
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Holly Elser
- Medical student, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
| | - Laura Schmidt
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies and Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Keith Humphreys
- Center for Innovation to Implementation, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California
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Dellazizzo L, Potvin S, Athanassiou M, Dumais A. Violence and Cannabis Use: A Focused Review of a Forgotten Aspect in the Era of Liberalizing Cannabis. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:567887. [PMID: 33192691 PMCID: PMC7525024 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.567887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been a shift surrounding societal and legal perspectives on cannabis reflecting changing public attitudes towards the perceived safety and social acceptability of cannabis use. With cannabis liberalization internationally, the focus of most cannabis-related harms has been on effects with users themselves. Harm-to-others including injuries from violence have nevertheless been unfortunately largely overlooked. While studies remain heterogeneous, there is meta-analytical evidence pointing towards an association. The aims of this focused review are two-fold: (I) review the evidence from meta-analyses on the association between cannabis and violence; and (II) provide an overview of possible mechanisms relating cannabis use to violence. First, evidence from meta-analytical studies in youths, intimate partners, and individuals with severe mental disorders have shown that there is a global moderate association between cannabis use and violence, which is stronger in the latter more at-risk population. Preliminary data has even highlighted a potential dose-response relationship with larger effects in more frequent users. Although of importance, this subject has remained essentially forgotten as a public health concern. While literature remains inconclusive, data has suggested potential increases in cannabis use following liberalization policies. This may increase violent outcomes if the effect is directly related to the use of cannabis by means of its psychophysiological modifications. However, for the moment, the mechanisms associating cannabis use and violence remain to be clearly resolved. Considering the recency of policy changes on cannabis, further methodologically sound research using longitudinal designs should examine the effects that cannabis use may have on different forms of violence and the trends that emerge, while evaluating the effects of possible confounding factors (e.g. other substance use). In addition, as evidence-based research from meta-analyses have shown that cannabis use is associated with violence, measures must be taken to mitigate the risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Dellazizzo
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphane Potvin
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Maria Athanassiou
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandre Dumais
- Research Center of the Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Addictology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Institut national de psychiatrie légale Philippe-Pinel, Montreal, QC, Canada
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