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Tomasi J, Lisoway AJ, Zai CC, Zai G, Richter MA, Sanches M, Herbert D, Mohiuddin AG, Tiwari AK, Kennedy JL. Genetic and polygenic investigation of heart rate variability to identify biomarkers associated with Anxiety disorders. Psychiatry Res 2024; 338:115982. [PMID: 38850888 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115982] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Given that anxiety disorders (AD) are associated with reduced vagally-mediated heart rate variability (HRV), genetic variants related to HRV may provide insight into anxiety etiology. This study used polygenic risk scores (PRS) to explore the genetic overlap between AD and HRV, and investigated whether HRV-related polymorphisms influence anxiety risk. Resting vagally-mediated HRV was measured using a wearable device in 188 European individuals (AD=101, healthy controls=87). AD PRS was tested for association with resting HRV, and HRV PRS for association with AD. We also investigated 15 significant hits from an HRV genome-wide association study (GWAS) for association with resting HRV and AD and if this association is mediated through resting HRV. The AD PRS and HRV PRS showed nominally significant associations with resting HRV and anxiety disorders, respectively. HRV GWAS variants associated with resting HRV were rs12980262 (NDUFA11), rs2680344 (HCN4), rs4262 and rs180238 (GNG11), and rs10842383 (LINC00477). Mediation analyses revealed that NDUFA11 rs12980262 A-carriers and GNG11 rs180238 and rs4262 C-carriers had higher anxiety risk through lower HRV. This study supports an anxiety-HRV genetic relationship, with HRV-related genetic variants translating to AD. This study encourages exploration of HRV genetics to understand mechanisms and identify novel treatment targets for anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Tomasi
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Amanda J Lisoway
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Clement C Zai
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gwyneth Zai
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; General Adult Psychiatry and Health Systems Division, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Margaret A Richter
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marcos Sanches
- Biostatistics Core, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Deanna Herbert
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada
| | - Ayeshah G Mohiuddin
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada
| | - Arun K Tiwari
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - James L Kennedy
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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2
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Crowley R, Cline K, Hilden D, Beachy M. Regulatory Framework for Cannabis: A Position Paper From the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 2024. [PMID: 39038289 DOI: 10.7326/m24-0638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is the dried flowers, stems, seeds, and leaves of the Cannabis sativa plant. It contains more than 100 compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol, which has psychoactive effects. Federal law prohibits the possession, distribution, and use of cannabis outside limited research activities, but most states have legalized cannabis for medical or recreational use. However, research into the potential therapeutic and adverse health effects of cannabis has been limited, in part because of the drug's federal legal status. In this position paper, the American College of Physicians (ACP) calls for the decriminalization of possession of small amounts of cannabis for personal use and outlines a public health approach to controlling cannabis in jurisdictions where it is legal. ACP recommends the rigorous evaluation of the health effects and potential therapeutic uses of cannabis and cannabinoids as well as research into the effects of legalization on cannabis use. It also calls for evidence-based medical education related to cannabis and increased resources for treatment of cannabis use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Crowley
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (R.C., K.C.)
| | - Katelan Cline
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (R.C., K.C.)
| | - David Hilden
- Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota (D.H.)
| | - Micah Beachy
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska (M.B.)
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Bear D, Hosker-Field A, Westall K, D'Alessio H, Cresswell M. Harm reduction isn't enough: Introducing the concept of Mindful Consumption and Benefit Maximization (MCBM). THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024:104514. [PMID: 39030084 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104514] [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: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
The concept of harm reduction was a radical departure from a century of stigmatizing demand reduction initiatives targeted at people who use drugs. In fact, since the early 1980's Harm Reduction has been used with great success to protect the lives and wellbeing of these individuals. When employed with people who use opioids, the relevancy and importance of harm reduction are easy to grasp because the potential dangers are both quite visible and profound. However, promoting harm reduction practices to people consuming cannabis is a more difficult challenge. Cannabis cannot cause death due to overconsumption, is not associated with the spread of communicable diseases, and is overall a relatively harmless drug both to the individual and society when compared with other legal substances such as tobacco and alcohol. Harm reduction campaigns targeted at cannabis consumers run the risk of sounding overly fearful and stigmatizing, ultimately being ignored like many of the old demand reduction initiatives. Cannabis does have potential harms, and teaching people to mitigate those harms is an important public health goal. This commentary argues that cannabis education targeted at young people should employ mindful consumption and benefit maximization (MCBM) language that promotes harm reduction practices but does not focus on harm as the primary issue related to cannabis use. We define what we mean by mindful consumption and benefit maximization, identify their convergence with harm reduction principles, and argue for their use to both promote knowledge and normalize cannabis consumption that incorporates harm reduction practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Bear
- Humber College, 2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Toronto, Ontario M8V 1K8, Canada.
| | - Ashley Hosker-Field
- Humber College, 2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Toronto, Ontario M8V 1K8, Canada
| | - Kelsey Westall
- Humber College, 2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Toronto, Ontario M8V 1K8, Canada
| | - Heath D'Alessio
- Humber College, 2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Toronto, Ontario M8V 1K8, Canada
| | - Marilyn Cresswell
- Humber College, 2 Colonel Samuel Smith Park Drive, Toronto, Ontario M8V 1K8, Canada
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4
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Li Y, Rhubart D. Cannabis use, social support and social engagement among working-age adults in rural America. Prev Med Rep 2024; 43:102794. [PMID: 38975281 PMCID: PMC11225026 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Cannabis use has been linked to physical, psychological, and behavioral changes. Although research indicates separately that informal social support and formal social engagement - which are correlated measures - serve as protective factors in cannabis use, much of this research focuses on youth and more urban samples, limiting our understanding of if these findings are true for rural populations where social support and social engagement are particularly important for health and health behaviors. To fill the research gap, this study examines the effects of informal social support (tangible support and emotional support) and formal social engagement on cannabis use among rural working-age adults. Methods This research analyzed 1,122 observations from a cross-sectional online survey conducted in 2022 of working-age adults (18-64) from rural America. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to predict cannabis use in the past 12 months using informal social support (tangible support and emotional support) and formal social engagement and other sociodemographic covariates and state legalization status. Results Multilevel logistic modeling indicates that low emotional support and low formal social engagement are associated with a higher odds of reporting cannabis use in the past 12 months among rural working-age adults, net of other sociodemographic variables and state legalization status. Conclusions The study suggests that emotional support and social engagement may contribute to cannabis use prevention among rural working-age adults. These findings should inform future research as well as the development of tailored health interventions targeting rural working-age adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiping Li
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, Biobehavioral Health Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Danielle Rhubart
- Department of Biobehavioral Health, The Pennsylvania State University, Biobehavioral Health Building, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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5
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Pratschke J. Harm reduction strategies for cannabis-related problems: a literature review and typology. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024:10.1007/s00406-024-01839-3. [PMID: 38935216 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-024-01839-3] [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] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Measures that seek to minimise the health and social consequences of substance use are an integral part of national drug strategies in many European countries. Against the backdrop of a high prevalence of cannabis use in the economically advanced countries, and increasing demand for treatment for cannabis-related problems, a range of harm reduction measures have been implemented by peers, statutory bodies and third-sector organisations. Based on a systematic review of the literature, the author describes these different forms of intervention, identifies innovative strategies and presents a simple typology that can be used when exploring existing measures or seeking to develop new policies. This typology covers different kinds of legal, socio-organisational and health-related interventions. All study designs were eligible for inclusion, with the exception of case reports, non-systematic reviews, editorials and news stories. Studies had to be published between 2011 and 2022, in English, and they had to refer to Europe, the Americas, Australia or New Zealand. A two-concept search was implemented using Embase.com and a number of other databases, combined with citation searches and manual website searching to improve coverage of research reports and advocacy documents. A total of 35 documents were deemed eligible, many of which rely on qualitative research methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Pratschke
- Department of Social Science, University of Naples Federico II, Vico Monte della Pietà, 1, Naples, 80138, Italy.
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6
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Moqueet N, Cornacchi SD, Antony J, Khalil I, Manca D, Fernandes C, Paszat L, Aubrey-Bassler K, Grunfeld E, Sopcak N, Pinto A, Konkin J, Nykiforuk C, Rabeneck L, Selby P, Wall B, O'Brien MA, Lofters A. BETTER LIFE- guidelines for chronic disease preventive care for people aged 18-39 years: a literature review. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:224. [PMID: 38909200 PMCID: PMC11193284 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02471-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The original 'BETTER' (Building on Existing Tools To Improve Chronic Disease Prevention and Screening in Primary Care) approach consisted of a prevention-focused visit between participants aged 40-65 years and a "Prevention Practitioner" (PP), who empowered the participant to set achievable prevention and screening goals for cancers and chronic diseases. BETTER was successfully adapted for economically deprived communities (BETTER HEALTH) in Canada. Our objective was to conduct a review of guidelines in preparation for adapting the 'BETTER HEALTH' approach for younger adults aged 18-39 years living with lower income, a group known to have earlier mortality due to a higher prevalence of preventable chronic diseases than their peers with higher income. METHODS We searched multiple electronic databases and grey literature for clinical practice guidelines on prevention/screening and included those that met the following criteria: published in English from 2008-2020 in Canada or any of the following countries (Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, United States and England); and addressed prevention or screening. We assessed quality using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II tool and extracted data (publication details, recommendations, and Quality/Level of evidence as reported by authors) from sources with overall scores of 5 or higher. Final recommendations were compiled after harmonization with input from diverse stakeholders (co-investigators, PPs, and the Community Advisory Committee). RESULTS We included a total of 85 guidelines, and developed a final list of 42 recommendations for 18-39 year-olds across 21 topics. Specific recommendations fell under the following topics: cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, lifestyle (alcohol; healthy nutrition/physical activity); healthy relationships and healthy sexuality, immunization, oral health, social determinants of health, and substance use. CONCLUSION We identified evidence-based guidelines on individual-level prevention/screening actions for adults 18-39 years old and relevant for those living with lower income which will directly inform development and implementation of the BETTER LIFE intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jesmin Antony
- Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville St, Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2, Canada
| | - Ielaf Khalil
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Donna Manca
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Carolina Fernandes
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Lawrence Paszat
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kris Aubrey-Bassler
- Primary Healthcare Research Unit, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Eva Grunfeld
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nicolette Sopcak
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Andrew Pinto
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jill Konkin
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Candace Nykiforuk
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Linda Rabeneck
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Peter Selby
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Becky Wall
- Durham Region Health Department, Whitby, ON, Canada
| | - Mary Ann O'Brien
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Aisha Lofters
- Women's College Hospital, 76 Grenville St, Toronto, ON, M5S 1B2, Canada.
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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7
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Schwartz N, Poon T, Hammond D, Hobin E. Associations between noticing public health education campaigns about cannabis and risk perceptions in the northern Canadian territories: a cross-sectional study. HEALTH EDUCATION RESEARCH 2024:cyae021. [PMID: 38905013 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyae021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated whether noticing cannabis education campaigns was associated with increased cannabis risk perceptions in Canada's three territories following non-medical cannabis legalization. Data were from the Cannabis Policy Study in the Territories, including 2452 participants, age ≥16 years residing in Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Poisson regression with robust standard errors were used to estimate associations between noticing cannabis education campaigns and moderate to very high risk perceptions of daily cannabis smoking, vaping, edible use and exposure to second-hand cannabis smoke, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and cannabis-use frequency. Results were compared with associations with risk perceptions of daily alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking, not included in cannabis education campaigns. Interactions were examined between noticing education campaigns and age group and cannabis-use frequency. Cannabis education campaigns were noticed by 40.4% of respondents, with lower awareness among those with lower education and income. Noticing campaigns was associated with higher risk perceptions of daily cannabis smoking [adjusted risk ratio (RRadj) = 1.09, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.02-1.16] and vaping (RRadj = 1.09, 95%CI: 1.02-1.16). Significant interactions were not found with age group or cannabis-use frequency. Findings are consistent with modest effects of cannabis education campaigns. Approaches are needed to increase reach of cannabis education campaigns, including among groups with lower education and income.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Schwartz
- Health Promotion, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Heath Ontario, 661 University Avenue, Suite 1701, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - Theresa Poon
- Health Promotion, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Heath Ontario, 661 University Avenue, Suite 1701, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
| | - David Hammond
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, 200 University Ave West, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
| | - Erin Hobin
- Health Promotion, Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention, Public Heath Ontario, 661 University Avenue, Suite 1701, Toronto, ON M5G 1M1, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, 155 College St Room 500, Toronto, ON M5T 3M7, Canada
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MacQuarrie AL, Brunelle C. Profiles of cannabis users and impact on cannabis cessation. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305088. [PMID: 38861510 PMCID: PMC11166302 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Although cannabis was legalized in Canada in 2018 and is one of the most used substances in Canada, few studies have examined how individuals with different patterns of cannabis use differ in their attempts to decrease or abstain from cannabis. The current study examined how groups of cannabis users, which were formed on the basis of demographic characteristics, substance use patterns, mental health symptoms, and self-reported quality of life differed on their experiences with cannabis cessation. A sample of 147 Canadian adult participants who had attempted to decrease or quit cannabis were recruited from the community (n = 84, 57.14%) and crowdsourcing (n = 63, 42.86%). Four profiles of cannabis users emerged using a Latent Profile Analysis: low-risk (n = 62, 42.18%), rapidly escalating high-risk (n = 40, 27.21%), long-term high severity (n = 35, 23.81%), and long-term lower severity (n = 10, 6.80%). Individuals in the rapidly escalating profile had attempted to decrease their cannabis use more times compared to other profiles. More participants in the long-term high severity group found their use stayed the same or got worse after their last cessation attempt, compared to the low-risk group where more individuals indicated their use stopped. The results of the current study indicate that cannabis users differ in their attempts at reducing or ceasing cannabis use and that they may benefit from different intensity of cannabis interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L. MacQuarrie
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick Saint John, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Caroline Brunelle
- Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick Saint John, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
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9
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Noël C, Scharf D, Koné A, Armiento C, Dylan D. Cannabis advertising impacts on youth cannabis use intentions following recreational legalization in Canada: An Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) study. Addict Behav 2024; 153:107981. [PMID: 38367505 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.107981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In 2018, Canada's Cannabis Act legalized adult recreational cannabis use and limited cannabis product advertising to adults. Cannabis product advertising to youth remains illegal. The extent to which adult-targeted, or illicit youth-targeted cannabis advertisements is reaching and impacting Canadian youth is unknown. We used Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) to describe how often and how much exposures to cannabis advertising influence Canadian youths' real-world, real-time intentions to use cannabis. METHODS 120 Ontario, Canada youths ages 14-18, took photos of cannabis advertising that they encountered in their natural environments over a period of nine consecutive days. Following each exposure and twice daily device-issued random prompts, they also rated their intentions to use cannabis. RESULTS Many participating youth (n = 85; 70.83 %) reported at least one cannabis advertising exposure during the study (range 1-30, M = 4.02). Exposures occurred through a range of advertising channels (e.g., internet ads, billboards). Multilevel modeling showed that youth advertising exposure increased cannabis use intentions in vivo (β = 0.06,SE = 0.03;t = 1.98;p =.04;n = 1,348). CONCLUSION Data from this study shows that cannabis advertisements are regularly reaching Canadian youth and increasing their intentions to use cannabis. This suggests that current Canadian prohibitions on cannabis advertising to youth are ineffective and/or ineffectively enforced, and that the Canadian government needs additional or enhanced prohibitions on cannabis promotion to protect youth from harms associated with increased advertisement exposure, such as increased cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Noël
- Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Deborah Scharf
- Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada; Department of Health Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Anna Koné
- Department of Health Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Daniel Dylan
- Bora Laskin Faculty of Law, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Ertl N, Freeman TP, Mokrysz C, Ofori S, Borissova A, Petrilli K, Curran HV, Lawn W, Wall MB. Acute effects of different types of cannabis on young adult and adolescent resting-state brain networks. Neuropsychopharmacology 2024:10.1038/s41386-024-01891-6. [PMID: 38806583 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-01891-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Adolescence is a time of rapid neurodevelopment and the endocannabinoid system is particularly prone to change during this time. Cannabis is a commonly used drug with a particularly high prevalence of use among adolescents. The two predominant phytocannabinoids are Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which affect the endocannabinoid system. It is unknown whether this period of rapid development makes adolescents more or less vulnerable to the effects of cannabis on brain-network connectivity, and whether CBD may attenuate the effects of THC. Using fMRI, we explored the impact of vaporized cannabis (placebo, THC: 8 mg/75 kg, THC + CBD: 8 mg/75 kg THC & 24 mg/75 kg CBD) on resting-state networks in groups of semi-regular cannabis users (usage frequency between 0.5 and 3 days/week), consisting of 22 adolescents (16-17 years) and 24 young adults (26-29 years) matched for cannabis use frequency. Cannabis caused reductions in within-network connectivity in the default mode (F[2,88] = 3.97, P = 0.022, η² = 0.018), executive control (F[2,88] = 18.62, P < 0.001, η² = 0.123), salience (F[2,88] = 12.12, P < 0.001, η² = 0.076), hippocampal (F[2,88] = 14.65, P < 0.001, η² = 0.087), and limbic striatal (F[2,88] = 16.19, P < 0.001, η² = 0.102) networks compared to placebo. Whole-brain analysis showed cannabis significantly disrupted functional connectivity with cortical regions and the executive control, salience, hippocampal, and limbic striatal networks compared to placebo. CBD did not counteract THC's effects and further reduced connectivity both within networks and the whole brain. While age-related differences were observed, there were no interactions between age group and cannabis treatment in any brain network. Overall, these results challenge the assumption that CBD can make cannabis safer, as CBD did not attenuate THC effects (and in some cases potentiated them); furthermore, they show that cannabis causes similar disruption to resting-state connectivity in the adolescent and adult brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Ertl
- Invicro London, Burlington Danes Building, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, London, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, London, UK
| | - Tom P Freeman
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Claire Mokrysz
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
| | - Shelan Ofori
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
| | - Anna Borissova
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kat Petrilli
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - H Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
| | - Will Lawn
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, WC1E 7HB, London, UK
- National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew B Wall
- Invicro London, Burlington Danes Building, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, London, UK.
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W12 0NN, London, UK.
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11
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Fernandes C, Campbell-Scherer D, Lofters A, Grunfeld E, Aubrey-Bassler K, Cheung H, Latko K, Tink W, Lewanczuk R, Shea-Budgell M, Heisey R, Wong T, Yang H, Walji S, Wilson M, Holmes E, Lang-Robertson K, DeLonghi C, Manca DP. Harmonization of clinical practice guidelines for primary prevention and screening: actionable recommendations and resources for primary care. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:153. [PMID: 38711031 PMCID: PMC11071261 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-024-02388-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) synthesize high-quality information to support evidence-based clinical practice. In primary care, numerous CPGs must be integrated to address the needs of patients with multiple risks and conditions. The BETTER program aims to improve prevention and screening for cancer and chronic disease in primary care by synthesizing CPGs into integrated, actionable recommendations. We describe the process used to harmonize high-quality cancer and chronic disease prevention and screening (CCDPS) CPGs to update the BETTER program. METHODS A review of CPG databases, repositories, and grey literature was conducted to identify international and Canadian (national and provincial) CPGs for CCDPS in adults 40-69 years of age across 19 topic areas: cancers, cardiovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, hepatitis C, obesity, osteoporosis, depression, and associated risk factors (i.e., diet, physical activity, alcohol, cannabis, drug, tobacco, and vaping/e-cigarette use). CPGs published in English between 2016 and 2021, applicable to adults, and containing CCDPS recommendations were included. Guideline quality was assessed using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II tool and a three-step process involving patients, health policy, content experts, primary care providers, and researchers was used to identify and synthesize recommendations. RESULTS We identified 51 international and Canadian CPGs and 22 guidelines developed by provincial organizations that provided relevant CCDPS recommendations. Clinical recommendations were extracted and reviewed for inclusion using the following criteria: 1) pertinence to primary prevention and screening, 2) relevance to adults ages 40-69, and 3) applicability to diverse primary care settings. Recommendations were synthesized and integrated into the BETTER toolkit alongside resources to support shared decision-making and care paths for the BETTER program. CONCLUSIONS Comprehensive care requires the ability to address a person's overall health. An approach to identify high-quality clinical guidance to comprehensively address CCDPS is described. The process used to synthesize and harmonize implementable clinical recommendations may be useful to others wanting to integrate evidence across broad content areas to provide comprehensive care. The BETTER toolkit provides resources that clearly and succinctly present a breadth of clinical evidence that providers can use to assist with implementing CCDPS guidance in primary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Fernandes
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada.
| | - Denise Campbell-Scherer
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Office of Lifelong Learning and the Physician Learning Program, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Aisha Lofters
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Peter Gilgan Centre for Women's Cancers, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eva Grunfeld
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kris Aubrey-Bassler
- Discipline of Family Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
- Newfoundland and Labrador Centre for Health Information, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Heidi Cheung
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Katherine Latko
- College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wendy Tink
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Richard Lewanczuk
- Alberta Health Services, Alberta, AB, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Ruth Heisey
- Peter Gilgan Centre for Women's Cancers, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Family and Community Medicine, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tracy Wong
- Strategic Clinical Networks, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | | | - Sakina Walji
- Department of Family Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Margo Wilson
- Discipline of Emergency Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Donna Patricia Manca
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
- Office of Lifelong Learning and the Physician Learning Program, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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12
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Goodman S, Dann MJ, Fataar F, Abramovici H. How have cannabis use and related indicators changed since legalization of cannabis for non-medical purposes? Results of the Canadian Cannabis Survey 2018-2022. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 127:104385. [PMID: 38520961 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104385] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use for non-medical purposes was legalized and regulated in Canada through the Cannabis Act in October 2018. This paper examined trends in use of cannabis for non-medical purposes and related indicators from pre- to post-legalization in Canada (2018-2022). METHODS Data from 5 years of the Canadian Cannabis Survey, an annual web-based survey administered to Canadians 16 years of age or older, were used in the analysis (n2018=12,952; n2019=11,922; n2020=10,821; n2021=10,733; n2022=10,048). Cannabis measures include questions about use, types of products, sources, risk perceptions and beliefs, and exposure to public education campaigns and health warnings. Adjusted logistic regression models tested differences in outcomes over time. RESULTS Past 12-month cannabis consumption increased among Canadians from 22 % in 2018 to 27 % in 2022 (AOR=1.41;99 % CI:1.28-1.54). Similarly, daily/almost daily (DAD) consumption increased from 5 % in 2018 to 7 % in 2022 (AOR=1.36;99 % CI:1.16-1.59). Consumption of dried flower, hash/kief, and concentrates/extracts (e.g., wax, shatter, budder) decreased since 2018, whereas consumption of edibles, beverages and vape pens/cartridges increased (p < 0.001). Legal purchasing increased from 4 % in 2018 to 69 % in 2022, while accessing cannabis through social and illegal sources decreased over time (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION More Canadians are reporting cannabis consumption since legalization and regulation of cannabis for non-medical purposes, continuing a pre-existing trend despite an increase in awareness of the risks of consuming cannabis. Trends in product use indicate a transition from dried flower and concentrates/extracts towards consumption of cannabis foods, drinks and vape pens/cartridges. The legal market is increasingly displacing the illicit cannabis market in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Goodman
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada
| | - Matthew J Dann
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada
| | - Fathima Fataar
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada
| | - Hanan Abramovici
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada.
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13
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Zhu Y, Greenfield TK, Ye Y, Williams E, Kerr WC. Life-course Accumulated Cannabis Use and Recent Cannabis-related Problems in the Washington Panel Survey. Addict Behav 2024; 152:107957. [PMID: 38277992 PMCID: PMC10923088 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2024.107957] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have only investigated the short-term association of recent cannabis use with cannabis-related problems, without accounting for the onset, duration, and variations in frequency of use in the life-course. METHODS We obtained data from the Washington panel survey during 2014-2016. We constructed accumulated lifetime exposure to cannabis use, heavy drinking (5+ drinks on one occasion), and cigarette pack-years from age of onset based on a series of decades-based questions on cannabis use and heavy drinking, and tobacco use history. We used Generalized Estimating Equation with Poisson distribution to investigate the association between accumulated cannabis use and the past-6-month CUDIT score. We adjusted for accumulated heavy drinking and cigarette pack-years, substance co-use variables, demographics, and applied survey weights. RESULTS We found strong and statistically significant correlations for the lifetime measures across the four panel surveys, indicating that the life-course measures of cannabis use and heavy drinking were largely reliable. We found a statistically significant relationship between the lifetime accumulated exposure to cannabis and CUDIT. The results were robust to the inconsistencies in reported frequencies and onset age across panel surveys. CONCLUSIONS This study established the relationship between lifetime exposure to cannabis and cannabis-related problems in a representative sample of drinkers and marijuana users in Washington state. We have also provided test-retest validity and question details for the decades-based cannabis and heavy drinking measures to facilitate their use in future studies of cannabis and alcohol-related outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yachen Zhu
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, CA, United States
| | | | - Yu Ye
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, CA, United States
| | - Edwina Williams
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, CA, United States
| | - William C Kerr
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, CA, United States
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14
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Assaf RD, Hamad R, Javanbakht M, Arah OA, Shoptaw SJ, Cooper ZD, Gorbach PM. Associations of U.S. state-level COVID-19 policies intensity with cannabis sharing behaviors in 2020. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:82. [PMID: 38622670 PMCID: PMC11020667 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00987-y] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use before the COVID-19 pandemic for many involved sharing prepared cannabis for inhalation, practices that were less prevalent during the pandemic. State-level COVID-19 containment policies may have influenced this decrease. This study examined the extent to which the intensity of state-level COVID-19 policies were associated with individual-level cannabis sharing. Findings have the potential to guide harm reduction policies for future respiratory pandemics and seasonal respiratory virus waves. METHODS This study used cross-sectional individual-level data from the COVID-19 Cannabis Study, an anonymous U.S.-based web survey on cannabis use disseminated during the early phase of the pandemic (Full sample N = 1,883). We combined individual-level data with state-level policy data from Kaiser Family Foundation's State COVID-19 Data and Policy Actions for three time-points from June to August 2020 that overlapped with the survey period. Cannabis sharing was dichotomized as any versus no sharing. We adapted a previously published coding framework to score the intensity of COVID-19 policies implemented in each U.S. state and averaged the policy score across the time period. We then used Poisson regression models to quantify the associations of the average state-level COVID-19 policy score with cannabis sharing during the pandemic. RESULTS Participants (n = 925) reporting using inhalation as a mode for cannabis use were included in this analysis. Most respondents were male (64.1%), non-Hispanic White (54.3%), with a mean age of 33.7 years (SD 8.8). A large proportion (74.9%) reported sharing cannabis during the pandemic. Those who shared cannabis more commonly lived in states with a lower average policy score (16.7, IQR 12.3-21.5) compared to those who did not share (18.6, IQR 15.3-25.3). In adjusted models, the prevalence ratio of any cannabis sharing per every 5-unit increase in the average COVID-19 policy score was 0.97 (95% CI 0.93, 1.01). CONCLUSIONS Fewer individuals shared cannabis in states with more intense COVID-19 containment policies compared to those in states with less intense policies. Individuals who use cannabis may be willing to make changes to their behavior and may further benefit from specific and directed public health messaging to avoid sharing during respiratory infection outbreaks.
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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, CA, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, Center for Vulnerable Populations, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Rita Hamad
- Department of Medicine, Benioff Homelessness and Housing Initiative, Center for Vulnerable Populations, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marjan Javanbakht
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Onyebuchi A Arah
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Statistics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Steven J Shoptaw
- Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Family Medicine and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 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, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 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, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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15
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Tomasi J, Zai CC, Zai G, Herbert D, Richter MA, Mohiuddin AG, Tiwari AK, Kennedy JL. Investigating the association of anxiety disorders with heart rate variability measured using a wearable device. J Affect Disord 2024; 351:569-578. [PMID: 38272363 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.137] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reduced vagally-mediated heart rate variability (HRV) has been associated with anxiety disorders (AD). The aim of this study was to use a wearable device and remote study design to re-evaluate the association of HRV with ADs, anxiety-related traits, and confounders. METHODS 240 individuals (AD = 120, healthy controls = 120) completed an at-home assessment of their short-term resting vagally-mediated HRV using a wristband, monitored over videoconference. Following quality control, analyses were performed investigating differences in HRV between individuals with AD (n = 119) and healthy controls (n = 116), associations of HRV with anxiety-related traits and confounders, and antidepressants effects on HRV in patients, including analyses stratified by ancestry (i.e., European, East Asian, African). RESULTS Among the confounders investigated, only age had a significant association with HRV. Patients with an AD had significantly lower vagally-mediated HRV than healthy controls in the European subsample, with a trend of significance in the whole sample. HRV was significantly associated with the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) but not with antidepressant use in the European subsample. LIMITATIONS The study measures occurred in a non-standardized at-home setting, and the three ancestry group sample sizes were unequal. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates reduced vagally-mediated HRV among patients with ADs compared to healthy controls. Results also point to low HRV being related to more physical anxiety symptoms (measured via HAM-A), suggesting a possible anxiety subtype. Overall, this study highlights the feasibility of using wearables for patients and encourages exploration of the biological and clinical utility of HRV as a risk factor for ADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Tomasi
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Clement C Zai
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, United States of America
| | - Gwyneth Zai
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; OCD and Anxiety Disorders Services, General Adult Psychiatry and Health Systems Division, CAMH, Toronto, Canada
| | - Deanna Herbert
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada
| | - Margaret A Richter
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Frederick W. Thompson Anxiety Disorders Centre, Department of Psychiatry, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ayeshah G Mohiuddin
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada
| | - Arun K Tiwari
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - James L Kennedy
- Tanenbaum Centre for Pharmacogenetics, Molecular Brain Science Department, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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16
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Murta JCD, Easpaig BNG, Hazell-Raine K, Byrne MK, Lertwatthanawilat W, Kritkitrat P, Bressington D. Recreational cannabis policy reform-What mental health nurses need to know about minimising harm and contributing to the reform debate. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2024; 31:270-282. [PMID: 37767750 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12984] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The recently rapidly evolving legal status of recreational cannabis in various countries has triggered international debate, particularly around measures required to minimise resulting harms. The present article argues that mental health nurses should have a key role in promoting safe and appropriate use of recreational cannabis, and minimising harm based on the extant evidence. The article summarises the factors driving legalisation, outlines the evident medicinal benefits of cannabis, and appraises the evidence on the negative mental health impacts associated with use. We go on to discuss research findings on the potentially deleterious mental health effects resulting from legalising recreational cannabis and strategies to minimise these harms, including directions for future research and evaluation. Further, we consider the importance of the implementation of harm minimisation measures that are context-specific, using Thailand as an example. Finally, we present the key health promotion messages that mental health nurses should aim to convey to people who use or consider using recreational cannabis. Ultimately, we aim to provide a summary of the existing evidence that mental health nurses can draw upon to promote mental health and engage with the policy reform debate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Karen Hazell-Raine
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mitchell K Byrne
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | | | | | - Daniel Bressington
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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17
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Maillet MA. Individual differences in legal and illicit cannabis purchasing behaviour in British Columbia, Canada: Findings from a 2021 cross-sectional survey. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 126:104363. [PMID: 38401174 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104363] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite thousands of licensed cannabis retail stores operating across Canada, there remains a significant illicit cannabis market. Some cannabis users continue to buy cannabis from dealers, illicit stores, and/or illicit online retailers. METHODS Data are from the 2021 British Columbia Cannabis Use Survey. Respondents (n = 8473) were 19 years or older, lived in British Columbia at the time of the survey, and reported using cannabis in the past 12 months. RESULTS Buying cannabis from all types of illicit sources was more common among younger cannabis users, those who use cannabis more frequently and started using cannabis before the age of 17 (vs. 19 or older), and among those who co-use cannabis with other drugs. Specifically, buying cannabis from a dealer was more common among men, those with lower educational attainment, and those who seek the lowest prices when buying cannabis. In contrast, those using cannabis for medical (vs. non-medical) purposes were more likely to report getting cannabis from illicit retail stores, while buying cannabis from illicit websites was more common among people who use edible cannabis products. CONCLUSION Consistent with other studies, younger and more frequent cannabis users were more likely to report buying cannabis from illicit sources. However, these findings suggest there is significant heterogeneity among those who buy cannabis from different types of illicit sources, which should be carefully considered when developing policies and strategies aimed at encouraging consumers to transition to legal sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myles A Maillet
- B.C. Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Canada
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18
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Link NW, Hyatt JM, Powell K. Public opinion on the expenditure of adult-use cannabis tax revenue: Evidence from New Jersey. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 125:104334. [PMID: 38340482 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe New Jersey residents' relative priorities for the allocation of tax revenue generated by recreational cannabis sales. We aim to assess preferences for public health initiatives, including drug treatment, compared to a range of alternatives, including traditional policing, especially within the social and demographic groupings of people generally most impacted by punitive drug enforcement policies. METHODS We collected population-representative survey data four months post-implementation of recreational cannabis sales in New Jersey (N = 1,006). We gauge respondents' top preferences for the allocation of new revenue generated by the legal cannabis market. Using multinomial logistic regression, we assess how various demographic and political factors shape public support for devoting revenue toward public health initiatives. RESULTS While priorities are mixed within the sample, we find more general support for funding community-based initiatives in public health, housing, and education than for funding police, courts, and prisons. Among Black residents, the largest proportion chose investments in affordable housing. Regression analysis reveals political orientation as having the most consistent association with expressed preferences, with Republicans favoring investments in traditional law enforcement priorities over other potential funding domains. CONCLUSIONS Recreational cannabis legalization is occurring at a rapid pace, yet important context, including how the tax revenue could be invested in communities, remains unclear. Insight into current public opinion on funding priorities suggests a desire for investment in fundamental societal institutions, including education and public health, rather than the punitive enforcement mechanisms that have defined cannabis policy for many decades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan W Link
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice and Health Sciences Center. Rutgers University, Camden, NJ 08102, United States; Center for Public Policy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States.
| | - Jordan M Hyatt
- Department of Criminology and Justice Studies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Center for Public Policy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
| | - Kathleen Powell
- Department of Criminology and Justice Studies, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States; Center for Public Policy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
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19
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Harrison ME, Kanbur N, Canton K, Desai TS, Lim-Reinders S, Groulx C, Norris ML. Adolescents' Cannabis Knowledge and Risk Perception: A Systematic Review. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:402-440. [PMID: 37966406 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
To systematically review evidence evaluating cannabis-related knowledge and perception of risk in children and adolescents. We systematically searched Medline, PsycINFO, and EMBASE using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology. 133 studies from around the world (including ages 10-18 yrs) met inclusion criteria, with 70% meeting grade 2C quality. Increased knowledge and perception of risk of cannabis frequently correlated with lower levels of current use and intent to use. Studies examining correlations over time generally demonstrated increased adolescent cannabis use and decreased perception of risk. Included prevention-based interventions often enhanced knowledge and/or perception of risk in adolescents exposed to the intervention. Studies exploring outcomes relating to legislative changes for recreational marijuana use demonstrated considerable heterogeneity regarding knowledge and perception of risk whereas studies that focused on medicinal marijuana legislative changes overwhelmingly demonstrated a decrease in perception of risk post legalization. Increased knowledge and perception of risk of cannabis in adolescents often correlate with lower levels of current use and intention to use in the future. Further study and implementation of public health and clinically-oriented strategies that seek to increase knowledge among youth about the potential health harms of cannabis use should continue and be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Harrison
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Division of Adolescent Health, CHEO, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Nuray Kanbur
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Division of Adolescent Health, CHEO, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kyle Canton
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tejas S Desai
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Chase Groulx
- CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark L Norris
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Division of Adolescent Health, CHEO, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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20
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O'Grady MA, Iverson MG, Suleiman AO, Rhee TG. Is legalization of recreational cannabis associated with levels of use and cannabis use disorder among youth in the United States? A rapid systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:701-723. [PMID: 35508822 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-01994-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis legalization policies are rapidly changing in the United States. While there are concerns that recreational legalization will negatively affect young people, previous reviews have not provided clear indication of such effects. The purpose of this rapid systematic review was to examine whether recreational legalization was associated with increases in prevalence of cannabis use and use disorder among adolescents and young adults. PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, PsycInfo, Web of Science, Dissertations & Theses Global, the Trip Database, and OpenGrey were searched from date of inception through Marcy 17, 2022 to retrieve all relevant records. English language and human subject filters were applied. Two reviewers screened abstracts and titles, assessed full text articles, and coded the final included articles. Studies including primarily 10- to 19-year-olds were classified as adolescent, and those between 18 and 26 years as young adult. Our search identified 33 research reports (22 with adolescent samples; 14 young adult). For adolescents, ten studies reported no change in use prevalence associated with legalization, six reported a decrease, and seven reported an increase. Among young adults, most studies (8) showed an increase in at least one prevalence measure, four showed no change, and one showed a decrease. Only two adolescent and one young adult study examined cannabis use disorder, both adolescent studies showed an increase, and the young adult showed no change. The majority of studies had risk of bias. Recreational legalization may be associated with increases in prevalence of cannabis use in young adults while results for adolescents are mixed. Policymakers and practitioners should consider appropriate prevention and treatment options for young people.Trial Registration: PROSPERO #CRD42021276984.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan A O'Grady
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Marissa G Iverson
- Lyman Maynard Stowe Library, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Adekemi O Suleiman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Taeho Greg Rhee
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- VA New England Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
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21
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Montgomery BW, Tong X, Vsevolozhskaya O, Anthony JC. Using publicly available data to predict recreational cannabis legalization at the county-level: A machine learning approach. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 125:104340. [PMID: 38342052 PMCID: PMC11031282 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104340] [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: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is substantial geographic variability in local cannabis policies within states that have legalized recreational cannabis. This study develops an interpretable machine learning model that uses county-level population demographics, sociopolitical factors, and estimates of substance use and mental illness prevalences to predict the legality of recreational cannabis sales within each U.S. county. METHODS We merged data and selected 14 model inputs from the 2010 Census, 2012 County Presidential Data from the MIT Elections Lab, and Small Area Estimates from the National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) from 2010 to 2012 at the county level. County policies were labeled as having recreational cannabis legal (RCL) if the sale of recreational cannabis was allowed anywhere in the county in 2014, resulting in 92 RCL and 3002 non-RCL counties. We used synthetic data augmentation and minority oversampling techniques to build an ensemble of 1000 logistic regressions on random sub-samples of the data, withholding one state at a time and building models from all remaining states. Performance was evaluated by comparing the predicted policy conditions with the actual outcomes in 2014. RESULTS When compared to the actual RCL policies in 2014, the ensemble estimated predictions of counties transitioning to RCL had a macro f1 average score of 0.61. The main factors associated with legalizing county-level recreational cannabis sales were the prevalences of past-month cannabis use and past-year cocaine use. CONCLUSION By leveraging publicly available data from 2010 to 2012, our model was able to achieve appreciable discrimination in predicting counties with legal recreational cannabis sales in 2014, however, there is room for improvement. Having demonstrated model performance in the first handful of states to legalize cannabis, additional testing with more recent data using time to event models is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xiaoran Tong
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Research Facility No.1, 111 Washington Ave, Lexington, KY 40508, United States
| | - Olga Vsevolozhskaya
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, University of Kentucky, Research Facility No.1, 111 Washington Ave, Lexington, KY 40508, United States
| | - James C Anthony
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, B601 West Fee Hall, 909 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824-1030, United States
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22
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Imtiaz S, Nigatu YT, Sanches M, Ali F, Boak A, Douglas L, Hamilton HA, Rehm J, Rueda S, Schwartz RM, Wells S, Elton-Marshall T. Effects of cannabis legalisation on patterns of cannabis consumption among adolescents in Ontario, Canada (2001-2019). Drug Alcohol Rev 2024; 43:764-774. [PMID: 38015010 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13786] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis legalisation was enacted on 17 October 2018 in Canada. Accordingly, the effects of cannabis legalisation on patterns of cannabis consumption were examined among adolescents, including on cannabis initiation, any cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis dependence. METHODS Data from a biennial population-based, cross-sectional survey of students in Ontario were pooled in a pre-post design (2001-2019; N = 89,238). Participants provided self-reports of cannabis initiation, any cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis dependence. Long-term trends in these patterns of cannabis consumption over two decades of observation were characterised to provide a broader context of usage. The effects of cannabis legalisation on patterns of cannabis consumption were quantified using logistic regression analyses. RESULTS Long-term trends over the two decades of observation indicated that cannabis initiation decreased and then increased (p = 0.0220), any cannabis use decreased and daily cannabis use decreased (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0001, respectively) and cannabis dependence remained unchanged (p = 0.1187). However, in comparisons between the pre-cannabis legalisation period (2001-2017) and the post-cannabis legalisation period (2019), cannabis legalisation was not associated with cannabis initiation (odds ratio; 95% confidence interval 1.00; 0.79-1.27), but it was associated with an increased likelihood of any cannabis use (1.31; 1.12-1.53), daily cannabis use (1.40; 1.09-1.80) and cannabis dependence (1.98; 1.29-3.04). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Cannabis legalisation was not associated with cannabis initiation, but it was associated with an increased likelihood of any cannabis use, daily cannabis use and cannabis dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Imtiaz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yeshambel T Nigatu
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Marcos Sanches
- Biostatistical Support Unit, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Farihah Ali
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Angela Boak
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Laura Douglas
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hayley A Hamilton
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jürgen Rehm
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Institute for Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of International Health Projects, Institute for Leadership and Health Management, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert M Schwartz
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Ontario Tobacco Research Unit, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Samantha Wells
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Tara Elton-Marshall
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
- Department of Health Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, Canada
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23
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Zhu Y, Ye Y, Greenfield TK, Kerr WC. Associations between simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis and cannabis-related problems in 2014-2016: evidence from the Washington panel survey. J Cannabis Res 2024; 6:8. [PMID: 38396047 PMCID: PMC10893643 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-024-00217-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To address the research question of how simultaneous users of alcohol and cannabis differ from concurrent users in risk of cannabis use problems after the recreational marijuana legalization in Washington State. METHODS We used generalized estimating equations with a Poisson distribution to analyze the association between simultaneous use of alcohol and marijuana (SAM) and cannabis-related problems compared to concurrent use. The data is a longitudinal sample of drinkers and cannabis users (n = 257, 47% female) aged 18 years and older from Washington State in 2014-2016. We adjusted for survey weights to account for differential probability of selection and response rates. The primary outcome is the past-six-month CUDIT problem subscale (ranging from 0 to 28), which is the total score for seven CUDIT problem items, after excluding the three items that covered marijuana use frequency. Covariates include marijuana use frequency (daily/near daily use, regular use, or infrequent use), marijuana daily quantity, alcohol daily volume, panel survey cycle, medical marijuana recommendation, driving time to nearest marijuana outlet, age of marijuana use onset, and other demographics. RESULTS After adjusting for covariates, we found that compared to concurrent use, SAM was significantly positively associated with CUDIT problem subscale (IRR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.25-2.27, p < 0.001); daily/near daily use of marijuana was strongly significantly associated with CUDIT problem subscale compared with infrequent use (IRR = 5.1, 2.71-9.57, p < 0.001) or regular use (IRR = 3.05, 1.91-4.85, p < 0.001). Secondary analyses using CUDIT total score as the outcome also showed a significant positive association with SAM compared to concurrent use (IRR = 1.17, 1.02-1.34, p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This study highlighted the importance of SAM, in addition to cannabis use frequency for predicting cannabis-related problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yachen Zhu
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA.
| | - Yu Ye
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA
| | | | - William C Kerr
- Alcohol Research Group, Public Health Institute, Emeryville, CA, 94608, USA
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24
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Girard R, Nalven T, Spillane NS. The protective role of valuing cultural activities on cannabis use in reserve-Dwelling First Nation youth. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38349771 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2024.2313453] [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: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Cannabis legalization and use across North America disproportionately negatively affects North American Indigenous (NAI) youth. Cultural activities may function as an alternative reinforcer to protect against substance use and promote engagement in substance-free activities. The present study explored the role of valuing cultural activities on positive cannabis expectancies and past-month cannabis use. This was a secondary data analysis of data from one NAI adolescent population reporting any past-month cannabis use. 106 NAI adolescents (50% female) from a Canadian reserve community completed surveys in spring 2017. The Institutional Review Board, tribal chief, and council approved this study and informed consent, assent, and parental permission were obtained from participants. Linear regression results revealed significant main effects of positive cannabis expectancies (b = 2.926, SE = 1.198, p = .017, 95%CI[0.542, 5.309]) and valuing cultural activities (b= -0.471,SE = 0.234, p=.048, 95%CI[-0.937, -0.005]) on cannabis use, but no significant interaction between cannabis expectancies and valuing cultural activities. Previous research found valuing cultural activities significantly moderates the relationship between positive alcohol expectancies and alcohol use. Divergent findings may relate to the different historical significance of alcohol versus cannabis. Alcohol was used as a method to colonize NAIs. Thus, our non-significant interaction may result from cannabis not holding the same historical significance in comparison to alcohol for First Nation people, although this is only a hypothesis and should be confirmed with a follow up study. Despite this, calls from Indigenous communities emphasize the need for strength-based approaches and our results indicate that valuing culture is still significantly related to reduced cannabis use, independent of cannabis expectancies.
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25
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Sampasa-Kanyinga H, Chaput JP, Mougharbel F, Hamilton HA. Associations between cannabis use, opioid misuse and severe psychological distress in adolescents: A cross-sectional school-based study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 255:111085. [PMID: 38228057 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111085] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use and nonmedical use of prescription opioids are consumed by a small to moderate number of adolescents. However, little is known about their combined influence on mental health in this age group. This study examined the association between cannabis use, nonmedical use of prescription opioids, or both with serious psychological distress among adolescents and tested if sex could moderate these associations. METHODS We based our analyses on cross-sectional data from the 2019 Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey, a provincially representative sample of students in grades 7 through 12 (aged 11-20 years or older) across Ontario, Canada (n= 7097; mean age: 15.2 ± 1.2 years). Logistic regression analyses were adjusted for important covariates. RESULTS We found that 20.5% reported cannabis use only, 5.8% reported opioid use only, and 5% reported both cannabis and opioid use. Cannabis use only (odds ratio [OR]:1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.53-2.37), opioid use only (OR: 2.21; 95% CI: 1.63-3.00), and both cannabis and opioid use (OR: 3.24; 95% CI: 2.25-4.66) were associated with greater odds of serious psychological distress after adjustment for covariates. Associations were similar for males and females. CONCLUSION The use of both cannabis and opioids is significantly associated with serious psychological distress among adolescents. Adolescents who use both cannabis and opioids represent a small and vulnerable group that should be targeted in future interventions against mental health problems. Health professionals should consider screening for polysubstance use, especially when working with adolescents who use cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugues Sampasa-Kanyinga
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Jean-Philippe Chaput
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fatima Mougharbel
- Healthy Active Living and Obesity Research Group, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hayley A Hamilton
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario Canada; Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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26
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Fernandez AC, Coughlin L, Solway ES, Singer DC, Kullgren JT, Kirch M, Malani PN. Prevalence and Frequency of Cannabis Use Among Adults Ages 50-80 in the United States. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res 2024; 9:59-64. [PMID: 38010715 PMCID: PMC10874828 DOI: 10.1089/can.2023.0056] [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: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Legal access to and attitudes toward cannabis are changing rapidly. Most of the United States and territories allow adults to use medical and/or recreational cannabis. Recent trends demonstrate increasing cannabis use among older U.S. adults. However, little research has examined cannabis use among older adults since 2019, when the COVID-19 pandemic caused major changes in patterns of substance use. Methods: The National Poll on Healthy Aging is a nationally cross-sectional survey that asked U.S. adults ages 50-80 in January 2021 about their cannabis use in the past year. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify demographic and health characteristics associated with cannabis use. Results: Among 2023 participants aged 50-80 (52.7% female), 12.1% reported cannabis use in the past year. Among those who reported cannabis use, 34.2% reported using cannabis products 4 or more days per week. In multivariable logistic regression, cannabis use was less likely among people who identified as Hispanic ethnicity or as "other" races compared with non-Hispanic white respondents. Cannabis use was more likely among unmarried/unpartnered and unemployed respondents. Those who consumed alcohol were more likely to use cannabis. Conclusions: More than one in 10 U.S. adults aged 50-80 used cannabis in the 1st year of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many used cannabis frequently. As access to and use of cannabis continue to increase nationally, clinicians and policymakers should monitor and address the potential risks among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne C. Fernandez
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Lara Coughlin
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Erica S. Solway
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Dianne C. Singer
- Child Health Evaluation and Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jeffrey T. Kullgren
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Health Management and Policy, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Matthias Kirch
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Preeti N. Malani
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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27
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Vogel EA, McQuoid JM, Romm KF, Kendzor DE, Cohn AM. Unmet Healthcare Needs and Medical Cannabis Use Among Sexual and Gender Minoritized Adults in a High-Stigma Environment. JOURNAL OF HOMOSEXUALITY 2024:1-19. [PMID: 38193883 PMCID: PMC11231057 DOI: 10.1080/00918369.2024.2302427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Sexual and gender minoritized (SGM) individuals in high-stigma areas may use cannabis to cope with unmet healthcare needs and elevated stress. Adults in Oklahoma (Mage = 43.9[SD = 16.8], 54.5% female, 71.4% non-Hispanic White) completed a cross-sectional survey (August-September 2022). Logistic regression examined the association of SGM identity (SGM or non-SGM) with past-year unmet healthcare need (yes/no). Logistic and linear regressions also examined main and interactive effects of SGM identity and unmet healthcare needs on past-month medical cannabis use and number of relaxation/tension-reduction reasons for cannabis use endorsed. Analyses were unadjusted and adjusted for sociodemographic and healthcare characteristics. In adjusted analyses, SGM (vs. non-SGM) adults were more likely to report unmet healthcare needs (aOR = 2.24, 95% CI[1.47, 3.42], p < .001) and past-month medical cannabis use (aOR = 2.15 [1.07, 4.34], p = .033). In unadjusted analyses, SGM (versus non-SGM) adults and those with unmet healthcare needs (versus without) endorsed more relaxation/tension reduction reasons for cannabis use in separate main effects (ps < .029), and adults with unmet healthcare needs (vs. without) were more likely to report past-month medical cannabis use (OR = 2.31 [1.86, 2.88]). SGM identity X unmet healthcare need interactions did not emerge (ps > .05). SGM individuals in high-stigma environments may use cannabis to compensate for insufficient healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin A. Vogel
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
| | - Julia M. McQuoid
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
| | - Katelyn F. Romm
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
| | - Darla E. Kendzor
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
| | - Amy M. Cohn
- TSET Health Promotion Research Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
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28
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Davis W, Miller BP, Amlung M. Perceptions and Attitudes Related to Driving after Cannabis Use in Canadian and US Adults. SUBSTANCE USE & ADDICTION JOURNAL 2024; 45:114-123. [PMID: 38258863 DOI: 10.1177/29767342231208521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study examined the risk perceptions related to driving after cannabis use (DACU) among Canadian and US adults who used cannabis in the past six months. METHODS Perceptions of danger, normative beliefs, perceived likelihood of negative consequences, and other driving-related variables were collected via online surveys in Canadian (n = 158; 50.0% female, 84.8% White, mean age = 32.73 years [SD = 10.61]) and US participants (n = 678; 50.9% female, 73.6% White, mean age = 33.85 years [SD = 10.12]). Driving cognitions and DACU quantity/frequency were compared between samples using univariate analyses of variance, and Spearman's (ρ) correlations were performed to examine associations between driving cognitions and DACU quantity/frequency. RESULTS The two samples did not significantly differ in self-reported level of cannabis use, lifetime quantity of DACU, or the number of times they drove within two hours of cannabis use in the past three months (Ps > .12). Compared to US participants, Canadians perceived driving within two hours of cannabis use as more dangerous (P < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.013) and reported more of their friends would disapprove of DACU (P = 0.03, ηp2 = 0.006). There were no differences in the number of friends who would refuse to ride with a driver who had used cannabis (P = 0.15) or the perceived likelihood of negative consequences (Ps > 0.07). More favorable perceptions were significantly correlated with greater lifetime DACU and driving within two hours of use (ρ = 0.25-0.53, Ps < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS These findings reveal differences in distal risk factors for DACU between Canada and the US and may inform prevention efforts focusing on perceptions of risk and social acceptance of DACU.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Davis
- Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Brandon P Miller
- Department of Applied Behavioral Science, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Michael Amlung
- Cofrin Logan Center for Addiction Research and Treatment, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
- Department of Applied Behavioral Science, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
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29
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Reddon H, Socias ME, DeBeck K, Hayashi K, Walsh Z, Milloy MJ. Cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings among people who use unregulated drugs. Addict Behav 2024; 148:107867. [PMID: 37748225 PMCID: PMC10896268 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107867] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We sought to analyze the association between cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings and self-reported changes in stimulant use among structurally marginalized people who use unregulated drugs (PWUD). METHODS The data for this secondary analysis was collected from a cross-sectional questionnaire administered to people who concurrently use cannabis and unregulated stimulants in Vancouver, Canada. We used logistic regression models to analyze the association between cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings and self-reported changes in the frequency of stimulant use. RESULTS In total, 297 individuals were included in the present study. Cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings was reported by 134 (45.1 %) participants and 104 (77.6 %) of these participants reported decreasing their stimulant use during periods of cannabis use. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings (adjusted Odds Ratio [aOR] = 0.24, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.10, 0.56) was significantly associated with self-reported reductions in stimulant use. In the sub-analyses, cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings was significantly associated with reduced stimulant use among people who used crystal methamphetamine daily (aOR = 0.08, 95 % CI: 0.02-0.37) and was not significantly associated with reduced stimulant use among people who used crack/cocaine daily (aOR = 0.33, 95 % CI: 0.04-2.86). CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that cannabis use to manage stimulant cravings is a common harm reduction strategy and suggest that this may be an effective strategy to reduce stimulant use among some PWUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hudson Reddon
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada.
| | - Maria Eugenia Socias
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
| | - Kora DeBeck
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; School of Public Policy, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V6B 5K3, Canada
| | - Kanna Hayashi
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Zach Walsh
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; University of British Columbia, Department of Psychology, Kelowna, BC V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - M-J Milloy
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2A9, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1Y6, Canada
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Kapler S, Adery L, Hoftman GD, Amir CM, Grigoryan V, Cooper ZD, Bearden CE. Assessing evidence supporting cannabis harm reduction practices for adolescents at clinical high-risk for psychosis: a review and clinical implementation tool. Psychol Med 2024; 54:245-255. [PMID: 37882050 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291723002994] [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] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis use is consistently associated with both increased incidence of frank psychotic disorders and acute exacerbations of psychotic symptoms in healthy individuals and people with psychosis spectrum disorders. Although there is uncertainty around causality, cannabis use may be one of a few modifiable risk factors for conversion to psychotic disorders in individuals with Clinical High Risk for Psychosis (CHR-P) syndromes, characterized by functionally impairing and distressing subthreshold psychotic symptoms. To date, few recommendations beyond abstinence to reduce adverse psychiatric events associated with cannabis use have been made. This narrative review synthesizes existing scientific literature on cannabis' acute psychotomimetic effects and epidemiological associations with psychotic disorders in both CHR-P and healthy individuals to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and practical mental health intervention. There is compelling evidence for cannabis acutely exacerbating psychotic symptoms in CHR-P, but its impact on conversion to psychotic disorder is unclear. Current evidence supports a harm reduction approach in reducing frequency of acute psychotic-like experiences, though whether such interventions decrease CHR-P individuals' risk of conversion to psychotic disorder remains unknown. Specific recommendations include reducing frequency of use, lowering delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol content in favor of cannabidiol-only products, avoiding products with inconsistent potency like edibles, enhancing patient-provider communication about cannabis use and psychotic-like experiences, and utilizing a collaborative and individualized therapeutic approach. Despite uncertainty surrounding cannabis' causal association with psychotic disorders, cautious attempts to reduce acute psychosis risk may benefit CHR-P individuals uninterested in abstinence. Further research is needed to clarify practices associated with minimization of cannabis-related psychosis risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Kapler
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Laura Adery
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gil D Hoftman
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carolyn M Amir
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Neuroscience Interdepartmental Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Vardui Grigoryan
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ziva D Cooper
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Carrie E Bearden
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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31
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Sun R, Mendez D, Warner KE. The association between cannabis vaping and other substance use. Addict Behav Rep 2023; 18:100519. [PMID: 38058682 PMCID: PMC10696379 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2023.100519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The popularity of cannabis vaping has increased rapidly, especially among adolescents and young adults. We posit some possible explanations and, to evaluate them, examine whether cannabis vapers differ from non-vaping cannabis users in other substance use. Methods Using nationally representative data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study wave 5 (Dec. 2018-Nov. 2019), we assessed the association between cannabis vaping and other substance use. A total of 1,689 adolescents and 10,620 adults who reported cannabis use in the past 12 months were included in the study. We employed multivariable logistic regressions to assess the association between cannabis vaping and other substance use. Results Among past 12-month cannabis users, compared with those who do not vape cannabis, participants who vape cannabis had higher risks of using alcohol (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 1.04, 95 % CI, 1.01-1.07), cigarettes (aRR = 1.09, 95 % CI, 1.02-1.15), cigars (aRR = 1.17, 95 % CI, 1.06-1.30), other tobacco products (aRR = 1.29, 95 % CI, 1.14-1.45), electronic nicotine products (aRR = 4.64, 95 % CI, 4.32-4.99), other illicit drugs (aRR = 1.53, 95 % CI, 1.29-1.80), and misuse of prescription drugs (aRR = 1.43, 95 % CI, 1.19-1.72). Compared to older cannabis vapers, younger cannabis vapers were at risk of using more other substances. Cannabis vaping was associated with all seven measures of substance use among young adults. Conclusions Compared to non-vaping cannabis users, cannabis vapers have higher likelihood of using other substances. Research is needed to understand why, as well as the implications of the association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyan Sun
- Department of Health Policy and Organization, School of Public Health, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
| | - David Mendez
- Department of Health Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Kenneth E. Warner
- Department of Health Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
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Huerne K, Ells C, Grad R, Filion KB, Eisenberg MJ. Cannabis-Impaired driving: ethical considerations for the primary care practitioner. Ann Med 2023; 55:24-33. [PMID: 36444881 PMCID: PMC9718556 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2151716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Widespread cannabis consumption and recreational cannabis legalization is thought to have led to an increase in motor vehicle accidents, although there currently lacks ethical guidance for primary care practitioners on cannabis-impaired driving.Objective: The aim was to develop an ethical framework for primary care providers on cannabis-impaired driving.Methods: An ethical analysis in the form of a critical interpretive review was undertaken, using a systematic approach to determine the appropriate action to a given situation with evidence to substantiate its claims. The search strategy was designed to answer the research question: What are some ethical concerns for primary care providers to consider when cannabis-impaired driving is suspected? Four databases were searched in December 2021 using keywords related to cannabis, impaired driving, ethics, and primary care. The resulting evidence was synthesized as recommendations for primary care practice.Results: The ethical approach for primary care practitioners in addressing cannabis-impaired driving can be summarized as the duty to always inform, provide care through prevention and harm reduction strategies, and report when necessary. The prevention of cannabis-impaired driving should not fall on the sole responsibility of primary care practitioners. As this review offers a high-level discussion of the ethical considerations in cannabis-impaired driving, specific recommendations will depend upon the legal and policy designations of individual jurisdictions.Conclusion: Ultimately, the practitioner should manage cannabis-impaired driving in a way that fosters the therapeutic relationship in patient-centered care, through motivational discussions, collaboration with specialists, skills for self-management, patient empowerment, and support. KEY MESSAGES Take-Home Points for Primary Care Practitioners in Cannabis-Impaired Driving • For patients who report driving frequently and using cannabis, the frequency of use, dosage, form of cannabis, tolerance levels, and withdrawal symptoms should be discussed, while informing the patient of the risks, harms, and legal consequences associated with cannabis-impaired driving. • The practitioner's primary responsibility in the cannabis-impaired driving context is to provide care to patients who drive and consume cannabis, which may include referring patients to mental health care to manage addictive or problematic behaviors associated with cannabis use. • Practitioners may have a duty to report cannabis-impaired driving to legal authorities (such as law enforcement) when the user engages in harmful behavior to themselves or others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Huerne
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, and Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Carolyn Ells
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, and Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Roland Grad
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Family Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Kristian B Filion
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Departments of Medicine and of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mark J Eisenberg
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada.,Departments of Medicine and of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Division of Cardiology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Munthali RJ, Richardson CG, Pei J, Westenberg JN, Munro L, Auerbach RP, Prescivalli AP, Vereschagin M, Clarke QK, Wang AY, Vigo D. Patterns of anxiety, depression, and substance use risk behaviors among university students in Canada. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-11. [PMID: 37943497 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2277201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To identify subgroups of students with distinct profiles of mental health symptoms (MH) and substance use risk (SU) and the extent to which MH history and socio-demographics predict subgroup membership. Participants: University students (N = 10,935: 63% female). Methods: Repeated cross-sectional survey administered weekly to stratified random samples. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify subgroups and multinomial regression was used to examine associations with variables of interest. Results: LCA identified an optimal 4-latent class solution: High MH-Low SU (47%), Low MH-Low SU (22%), High MH-High SU (19%), and Low MH-High SU (12%). MH history, gender, and ethnicity were associated with membership in the classes with high risk of MH, SU, or both. Conclusion: A substantial proportion of students presented with MH, SU, or both. Gender, ethnicity and MH history is associated with specific patterns of MH and SU, offering potentially useful information to tailor early interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Munthali
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chris G Richardson
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julia Pei
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jean N Westenberg
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lonna Munro
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Randy P Auerbach
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Melissa Vereschagin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Quinten K Clarke
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Angel Y Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Daniel Vigo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
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Wellman RJ, O'Loughlin EK, Sylvestre MP, Dugas EN, O'Loughlin JL. Factors associated with cannabis use in early adolescence. Health Promot Chronic Dis Prev Can 2023; 43:14-26. [PMID: 36651884 PMCID: PMC9894293 DOI: 10.24095/hpcdp.43.1.02] [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: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We examined whether factors identified as associated with cannabis use at age 14 to 16 years are also associated with ever use at age 12. METHODS Participants in the AdoQuest study (n = 1852) were recruited in 2005 from among Grade 5 students in 29 French-language elementary schools in Montréal, Canada. Self-report data were collected from participants in Grade 5 (spring 2005) and 6 (fall 2005 and spring 2006) and from parents/guardians in 2006/07. Inclusion in the analytic sample (n = 1076; mean age [SD] = 10.7 [0.5]) required data from participant and parental questionnaires and data on cannabis use in Grade 6 (mean age [SD] = 11.7 [0.4]). We estimated associations between ever use at age 12 with 33 potential correlates, separately in unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models. RESULTS Fifty-three participants (4.9%) reported ever use at age 12. Factors associated with higher odds of ever use included older age, identifying as male, lower household income, more weekly spending money, ever tried cigarettes or other tobacco products, ever drank alcohol or binge drank, ever gambled, friends or siblings smoke cigarettes, greater nicotine dependence, higher depressive symptoms and greater impulsivity. Protective factors included higher levels of parental/guardian monitoring and greater self-esteem and school connectedness. CONCLUSION Factors associated with cannabis use at later ages are also associated with ever use at age 12. Our findings suggest that surveillance for and interventions to prevent cannabis use are warranted before age 12.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Wellman
- Department of Population and Health Sciences, Division of Preventive and Behavioral Medicine, UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Erin K O'Loughlin
- Centre de Recherche CRCHUM, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marie-Pierre Sylvestre
- Centre de Recherche CRCHUM, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Social & Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Erika N Dugas
- Centre de Recherche CRCHUM, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Vitalité Health Network, Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Jennifer L O'Loughlin
- Centre de Recherche CRCHUM, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Petros R, Walker DD, Davis A, Monroe-DeVita M. Provider Intentions to Implement Cannabis Use Intervention in First Episode Psychosis Treatment. Community Ment Health J 2023; 59:1479-1489. [PMID: 37162662 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01133-x] [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] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Young adults with first episode psychosis use cannabis at high rates. In light of progressively tolerant attitudes toward cannabis, decreased perceptions of risk, and limited implementation of substance use modules within coordinated specialty care (CSC) programs, this study sought to describe factors contributing to CSC providers' intentions to implement motivational enhancement therapy (MET) for cannabis reduction. Two focus groups were conducted with CSC providers (n = 14), with questions guided by theory of planned behavior. Content and thematic analyses were conducted to identify salient themes associated with the theory. Participants generally indicated intentions to implement MET; limiting factors included concerns about clients' willingness to discuss cannabis use, perception of support for abstinence-only goals, and concerns about intervention mechanics such as computerized assessments. To reduce barriers limiting provider intention to implement MET, authors recommend training on assessment protocols, the merits of harm-reduction, and strategies for lower-risk cannabis use.Please confirm if the author names are presented accurately and in the correct sequence. Author 1 Given name: [Ryan] Last name [Petros]. Author 2 Given name: [Denise D.] Last name [Walker]. Author 3 Given name: [Adam] Last name [Davis]. Author 4 Given name: [Maria] Last name [Monroe-DeVita]. Also, kindly confirm the details in the metadata are correct.Confirmed!
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Petros
- University of Washington School of Social Work, 4101 15th Ave. NE, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA.
| | - Denise D Walker
- University of Washington School of Social Work, 909 NE 43rd Street, Suite 304, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Adam Davis
- University of Washington School of Social Work, 4101 15th Ave. NE, Seattle, WA, 98105, USA
| | - Maria Monroe-DeVita
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, 325 Ninth Ave., Box 35991, Seattle, WA, 98104, USA
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Coelho SG, Rueda S, Costiniuk CT, Jenabian MA, Margolese S, Mandarino E, Shuper PA, Hendershot CS, Cunningham JA, Arbess G, Singer J, Wardell JD. Knowledge of Cannabinoid Content Among People Living with HIV Who Use Cannabis: a Daily Diary Study. Int J Behav Med 2023:10.1007/s12529-023-10221-x. [PMID: 37794278 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10221-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many people living with HIV (PLWH) use cannabis for medicinal reasons. Patients' knowledge of the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations of the cannabis products they use may be important in helping patients achieve symptom relief while guarding against potential risks of cannabis use. However, no studies have examined cannabinoid concentration knowledge among PLWH. METHOD PLWH (N = 29; 76% men, mean age 47 years) reporting cannabis use for both medicinal and nonmedicinal reasons completed daily surveys over 14 days assessing cannabis products used, knowledge of cannabinoid concentrations of cannabis products used, cannabis use motives (medicinal, nonmedicinal, both), and positive and negative cannabis-related consequences. Across the 361 cannabis use days captured on the daily surveys, at least some knowledge of cannabinoid concentrations was reported on an average of 43.1% (for THC) and 26.6% (for CBD) of the days. RESULTS Generalized linear mixed models revealed that participants were more likely to report knowing THC and CBD concentrations on days when they used non-flower forms of cannabis relative to days when they used cannabis flower only. Participants who used cannabis for medicinal reasons on a greater proportion of days had greater knowledge of cannabinoid concentration overall across days. Further, greater overall knowledge of cannabinoid concentrations was associated with fewer reported negative cannabis-related consequences. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest that among PLWH, knowledge of cannabinoid concentrations may be higher when using non-flower cannabis products and among those reporting primarily medicinal cannabis use. Moreover, knowledge of cannabinoid concentration may protect against negative cannabis-related consequences in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie G Coelho
- Department of Psychology, York University, 277 Behavioural Sciences Building, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sergio Rueda
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Cecilia T Costiniuk
- CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Chronic Viral Illness Service and Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Infection and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mohammad-Ali Jenabian
- CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec á Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | | | - Paul A Shuper
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christian S Hendershot
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Bowles Centre for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - John A Cunningham
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Addictions, Kings College London, London, UK
| | - Gordon Arbess
- Unity Health Toronto, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joel Singer
- CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Jeffrey D Wardell
- Department of Psychology, York University, 277 Behavioural Sciences Building, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research and Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- CIHR Canadian HIV Trials Network, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Matson TE, Williams EC, Lapham GT, Oliver M, Hallgren KA, Bradley KA. Association between cannabis use disorder symptom severity and probability of clinically-documented diagnosis and treatment in a primary care sample. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 251:110946. [PMID: 37688980 PMCID: PMC10655701 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.110946] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brief cannabis screening followed by standardized assessment of symptoms may support diagnosis and treatment of cannabis use disorder (CUD). This study tested whether the probability of a medical provider diagnosing and treating CUD increased with the number of substance use disorder (SUD) symptoms documented in patients' EHRs. METHODS This observational study used EHR and claims data from an integrated healthcare system. Adult patients were included who reported daily cannabis use and completed the Substance Use Symptom Checklist, a scaled measure of DSM-5 SUD symptoms (0-11), during routine care 3/1/2015-3/1/2021. Logistic regression estimated associations between SUD symptom counts and: 1) CUD diagnosis; 2) CUD treatment initiation; and 3) CUD treatment engagement, defined based on Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) ICD-codes and timelines. We tested moderation across age, gender, race, and ethnicity. RESULTS Patients (N=13,947) were predominantly middle-age, male, White, and non-Hispanic. Among patients reporting daily cannabis use without other drug use (N=12,568), the probability of CUD diagnosis, treatment initiation, and engagement increased with each 1-unit increase in Symptom Checklist score (p's<0.001). However, probabilities of diagnosis, treatment, and engagement were low, even among those reporting ≥2 symptoms consistent with SUD: 14.0% diagnosed (95% CI: 11.7-21.6), 16.6% initiated treatment among diagnosed (11.7-21.6), and 24.3% engaged in treatment among initiated (15.8-32.7). Only gender moderated associations between Symptom Checklist and diagnosis (p=0.047) and treatment initiation (p=0.012). Findings were similar for patients reporting daily cannabis use with other drug use (N=1379). CONCLUSION Despite documented symptoms, CUD was underdiagnosed and undertreated in medical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa E Matson
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Center for Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98101, USA.
| | - Emily C Williams
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D) Center for Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, Veterans Affairs (VA) Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Gwen T Lapham
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Malia Oliver
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Kevin A Hallgren
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Katharine A Bradley
- Kaiser Permanente Washington Health Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA; Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Storey DP, Keeler-Villa NR, Harris N, Anthonypillai J, Tippin GK, Parihar V, Rash JA. Views on and experiences with medicinal cannabis among Canadian veterans who live with pain: A qualitative study. Can J Pain 2023; 7:2232838. [PMID: 37701550 PMCID: PMC10494725 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2023.2232838] [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: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Background During fiscal year 2021-2022, Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) reimbursed 18,388 veterans for medicinal cannabis at a cost of $153 million. Yet, it is not known whether the reimbursement program is producing a net benefit for veterans. Aims This study investigated the views and experiences Canadian that veterans who live with pain have about medicinal cannabis use, including its use for the management of chronic pain, poor sleep, and emotional distress. Methods Twelve Canadian veterans who live with pain-eight men, four women; split across four focus groups-were recruited to participate in a semistructured discussion around their experiences with medicinal cannabis use. Results Using inductive thematic analysis, seven broad categories were identified: (1) cannabis use behaviors, (2) reasons for cannabis use, (3) outcomes from cannabis use, (4) facilitators of cannabis use, (5) barriers to cannabis use, (6) stigma around cannabis use, and (7) questions and concerns about cannabis use. Conclusions Most veterans initiated cannabis use to manage the symptoms of preexisting medical and/or mental health conditions. Despite some negative side effects, most veterans reported improvements in their overall quality of life, sleep, relationships, mood, and pain. Concern remains around the discrepancy between veterans' qualitative reports of beneficial outcomes from medicinal cannabis use and equivocal findings around the benefit-to-harm ratio in the wider literature. Currently, the VAC reimbursement program remains challenged by unclear indication for which veterans, with what condition(s), at what dose, and in what form medical cannabis is most beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P. Storey
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Natalie R. Keeler-Villa
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada
| | - Nick Harris
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada
| | | | - Gregory K. Tippin
- Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Vikas Parihar
- Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joshua A. Rash
- Department of Psychology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada
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Ross JM, Karoly HC, Zellers SM, Ellingson JM, Corley RP, Iacono WG, Hewitt JK, McGue M, Vrieze S, Hopfer CJ. Evaluating substance use outcomes of recreational cannabis legalization using a unique co-twin control design. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2023; 49:630-639. [PMID: 37262386 PMCID: PMC10689567 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2022.2163177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Background: As more states pass recreational cannabis legalization (RCL), we must understand how RCL affects substance use.Objectives: The current study aims to examine the effect of RCL on lifetime and past-year use of cannabis, alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, frequency of cannabis, alcohol, and tobacco use, co-use of cannabis with alcohol and tobacco, and consequences from cannabis and alcohol use.Methods: We used a unique, co-twin control design of twin pairs who were discordant for living in a state with RCL between 2018 and 2021. The sample consisted of 3,830 adult twins (41% male), including 232 twin pairs discordant for RCL. Problems from alcohol and cannabis use were assessed via the Brief Marijuana Consequences Questionnaire and the Brief Young Adult Alcohol Consequences Questionnaire.Results: Results indicated that the twin living in an RCL state was more likely to endorse past-year cannabis use (OR = 1.56, p = .009), greater number of cannabis use days in the past 6 months (β = 0.47, p = .019), but not more negative consequences from cannabis use (β = 0.21, p = .456) compared to their co-twin in a non-RCL state. There were no differences within-twin pairs in frequency of alcohol use (β=-0.05, p = .601), but the RCL twin reported fewer negative consequences from alcohol use (β=-0.29, p = .016) compared to their co-twin in a non-RCL state. We did not observe any other differences within-twin pairs on other outcomes.Conclusion: These results suggest that living in an RCL state is associated with greater cannabis frequency but not more negative consequences from cannabis use than living in a non-RCL state.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Megan Ross
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Hollis C. Karoly
- Department of Psychology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | | | - Jarrod M. Ellingson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Robin P. Corley
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - William G. Iacono
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - John K. Hewitt
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Matt McGue
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Scott Vrieze
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Christian J. Hopfer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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Fataar F, Driezen P, Owusu-Bempah A, Hammond D. Patterns of problematic cannabis use in Canada pre- and post-legalisation: Differences by neighbourhood deprivation, individual socioeconomic factors and race/ethnicity. Drug Alcohol Rev 2023; 42:1534-1546. [PMID: 37137866 DOI: 10.1111/dar.13677] [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: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The legalisation of cannabis in Canada in 2018, and subsequent increase in prevalence of use, has generated interest in understanding potential changes in problematic patterns of use, including by socio-demographic factors such as race/ethnicity and neighbourhood deprivation level. METHODS This study used repeat cross-sectional data from three waves of the International Cannabis Policy Study web-based survey. Data were collected from respondents aged 16-65 prior to cannabis legalisation in 2018 (n = 8704), and post-legalisation in 2019 (n = 12,236) and 2020 (n = 12,815). Respondents' postal codes were linked to the INSPQ neighbourhood deprivation index. Multinomial regression models examined differences in problematic use by socio-demographic and socio-economic factors and over time. RESULTS No evidence of a change in the proportion of those aged 16-65 in Canada whose cannabis use would be classified as 'high risk' was noted from before cannabis legalisation (2018 = 1.5%) to 12 or 24 months after legalisation (2019 = 1.5%, 2020 = 1.6%; F = 0.17, p = 0.96). Problematic use differed by socio-demographic factors. For example, consumers from the most materially deprived neighbourhoods were more likely to experience 'moderate' vs 'low risk' compared to those living outside deprived neighbourhoods (p < 0.01 for all). Results were mixed for race/ethnicity and comparisons for high risk were limited by small sample sizes for some groups. Differences across subgroups were consistent from 2018 to 2020. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS The risk of problematic cannabis use does not appear to have increased in the 2 years following cannabis legalisation in Canada. Disparities in problematic use persisted, with some racial minority and marginalised groups experiencing higher risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fathima Fataar
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Pete Driezen
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | | | - David Hammond
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
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Barré T, Testa D, Santos M, Marcellin F, Roux P, Carrieri P, Radoszycki L, Protopopescu C. Symptom severity is a major determinant of cannabis-based products use among people with multiple sclerosis. J Clin Nurs 2023; 32:6460-6473. [PMID: 36880273 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16674] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES We aimed to identify correlates of cannabinoid-based products (CBP) use in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in France and Spain. BACKGROUND MS is responsible for a wide range of symptoms, including pain. Access to CBP differs according to local legislation. The French context is more restrictive than the Spanish one, and no data regarding cannabis use among MS patients has yet been published. Characterizing MS patients who use CBP constitutes a first step toward identifying persons most likely to benefit from them. DESIGN An online cross-sectional survey was submitted to MS patients who were members of a social network for people living with chronic diseases and were living in France or Spain. METHODS Two study outcomes measured therapeutic CBP use and daily therapeutic CBP use. Seemingly unrelated bivariate probit regression models were used to test for associations between the outcomes and patients' characteristics while accounting for country-related differences. STROBE guidelines were followed in reporting this study. RESULTS Among 641 study participants (70% from France), the prevalence of CBP use was similar in both countries (23.3% in France vs. 20.1% in Spain). MS-related disability was associated with both outcomes, with a gradient observed between different degrees of disability. MS-related pain level was associated with CBP use only. CONCLUSIONS CBP use is common in MS patients from both countries. The more severe the MS, the more participants turned to CBP to alleviate their symptoms. Easier access to CBP should be ensured for MS patients in need of relief, especially from pain. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE This study highlights the characteristics of MS patients using CBP. Such practices should be discussed by healthcare professional with MS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tangui Barré
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Melina Santos
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Fabienne Marcellin
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Perrine Roux
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | - Patrizia Carrieri
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Camelia Protopopescu
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
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Newport K, Bishop L, Donnan J, Pal S, Najafizada M. The COVID-19 pandemic and cannabis use in Canada-a scoping review. J Cannabis Res 2023; 5:31. [PMID: 37525289 PMCID: PMC10388476 DOI: 10.1186/s42238-023-00196-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada, the cannabis industry has adapted to public health emergency orders which had direct and indirect consequences on cannabis consumption. The objective of this scoping review was to describe the patterns of consumption and cannabis-related health and safety considerations during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. METHODS For this scoping review, we searched four electronic databases supplemented with grey literature. Peer-reviewed or pre-print studies using any study design and grey literature reporting real-world data were included if published in English between March 2020 and September 2021 and focused on cannabis and COVID-19 in Canada. A content analysis was performed. RESULTS Twenty-one studies met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Study designs included cross-sectional surveys (n = 17), ecological study (n = 1), conceptual paper (n = 1), longitudinal study (n = 1), and prospective cohort study (n = 1). Most were conducted solely in Canada (n = 18), and the remaining included global data. Our content analysis suggested that cannabis consumption during the pandemic varied by reasons for use, consumers' age, gender, and method of consumption. Health and safety impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemics included increased mental illness, increased emergency visits, and psychosocial impacts. DISCUSSION This scoping review suggested that the impact of the pandemic on cannabis consumption in Canada is more complex than simplistic assumptions of an increase or decrease in consumption and continues to be difficult to measure. This study has explored some of those complexities in relation to reasons for use, age, gender, method of consumption, and health impacts. This scoping review is limited by focusing on the breadth compared to depth. CONCLUSIONS Legalizing nonmedical use of cannabis in Canada in 2018 has had its challenges of implementation, one of which has been the changing context of the society. The findings of this study can help inform cannabis policy updates in Canada as the country is reaching its fifth year of legalizing nonmedical use of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelda Newport
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL, A1B 3V6, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada
| | - Lisa Bishop
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL, A1B 3V6, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada
| | - Jennifer Donnan
- School of Pharmacy, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, St. John's, NL, A1B 3V6, Canada
| | - Shefali Pal
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada
| | - Maisam Najafizada
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador, 300 Prince Phillip Drive, NL, A1B 3V6, St. John's, Canada.
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O'Neill B, Ferguson J, Dalueg L, Yusuf A, Kirubarajan A, Lloyd T, Mollanji E, Persaud N. Evaluating the Supporting Evidence of Medical Cannabis Claims Made on Clinic Websites: Cross-Sectional Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e45550. [PMID: 37384372 PMCID: PMC10365571 DOI: 10.2196/45550] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the legalization of medical cannabis in Canada in 2013, prescription of cannabis for medical purposes has become commonplace and a multibillion dollar industry has formed. Much of the media coverage surrounding medical cannabis has been positive in nature, leading to Canadians potentially underestimating the adverse effects of medical cannabis use. In recent years, there has been a large increase in clinic websites advertising the use of medical cannabis for health indications. However, little is known about the quality of the evidence used by these clinic websites to describe the effectiveness of cannabis used for medical purposes. OBJECTIVE We aimed to identify the indications for medical cannabis reported by cannabis clinics in Ontario, Canada, and the evidence these clinics cited to support cannabis prescription. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional web search to identify all cannabis clinic websites within Ontario, Canada, that had physician involvement and identified their primary purpose as cannabis prescription. Two reviewers independently searched these websites to identify all medical indications for which cannabis was promoted and reviewed and critically appraised all studies cited using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine Levels of Evidence rubric. RESULTS A total of 29 clinics were identified, promoting cannabis for 20 different medical indications including migraines, insomnia, and fibromyalgia. There were 235 unique studies cited on these websites to support the effectiveness of cannabis for these indications. A high proportion (36/235, 15.3%) of the studies were identified to be at the lowest level of evidence (level 5). Only 4 clinic websites included any mention of harms associated with cannabis. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis clinic websites generally promote cannabis use as medically effective but cite low-quality evidence to support these claims and rarely discuss harms. The recommendation of cannabis as a general therapeutic for many indications unsupported by high-quality evidence is potentially misleading for medical practitioners and patients. This disparity should be carefully evaluated in context of the specific medical indication and an individualized patient risk assessment. Our work illustrates the need to increase the quality of research performed on the medical effects of cannabis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braden O'Neill
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jacob Ferguson
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Abban Yusuf
- MAP Centre for Urban Health Solutions, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Abirami Kirubarajan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Taryn Lloyd
- Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eisi Mollanji
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Navindra Persaud
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Samuel S, Michael M, Tadros M. Should gastroenterologists prescribe cannabis? The highs, the lows and the unknowns. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:4210-4230. [PMID: 37449231 PMCID: PMC10336994 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i18.4210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana, is a drug extracted from the Cannabis plant known for its psychotropic and medicinal properties. It has been used for healing purposes during ancient times, although its psychoactive components led to its restricted use in medicine. Nonetheless, cannabis is found to have modulatory effects on the endocannabinoid system exhibiting its medicinal role in the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Emerging animal and human studies demonstrate the influential effects of cannabis on a variety of GI diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, motility disorders and GI malignancies. It also has a regulatory role in GI symptoms including nausea and vomiting, anorexia, weight gain, abdominal pain, among others. However, both its acute and chronic use can lead to undesirable side effects such as dependency and addiction, cognitive impairment and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. We will discuss the role of cannabis in the GI system as well as dosing strategies to help guide gastroenterologists to assess its efficacy and provide patient counseling before prescription of medical marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Samuel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
| | - Mark Michael
- Department of Internal Medicine, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
| | - Micheal Tadros
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY 12208, United States
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Yousufzai SJ, Cole AG, Nonoyama M, Barakat C. Changes in Quantity Measures of Various Forms of Cannabis Consumption among Emerging Adults in Canada in Relation to Policy and Public Health Developments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6213. [PMID: 37444061 PMCID: PMC10341313 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20136213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Limited research examines changes in quantities of various forms of smoked/vaped cannabis among regular consumers, including emerging adults (EAs; 18 to 29) in Canada. This information is particularly relevant in the current context of emerging cannabis behaviors among EAs related to political amendments (legalization of cannabis), vaping-related lung illnesses (EVALI), and unprecedented pandemics (COVID-19). This study investigated the impact of legalizing recreational cannabis use in Canada, the EVALI epidemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic on the quantity of smoked/vaped forms of cannabis in relation to gender differences. EAs retrospectively self-reported the quantity of herb, hash, concentrates, joint size, and the number of joints and vaping cartridges in relation to three consecutive developments: pre-legalization, post-legalization; pre-EVALI, post-EVALI, pre-COVID-19, and during COVID-19. The quantity of herb use significantly increased among heavy users, and vaping quantity significantly increased among light users. Overall, an increasing incremental trend was observed in the average quantity of cannabis forms used over time. Males consumed higher quantities of all cannabis forms than females. More males than females reported using concentrates (p < 0.05). These findings reveal unique aspects of the amount of various cannabis forms smoked/vaped in relation to gender and provides preliminary evidence of cannabis consumption behaviors in relation to changing social and cultural contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan J. Yousufzai
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON L1H 7K4, Canada; (A.G.C.); (M.N.); (C.B.)
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Kourgiantakis T, Lee E, Kosar AKT, Tait C, Lau CKY, McNeil S, Craig S, Ashcroft R, Williams CC, Goldstein AL, Chandrasekera U, Sur D, Henderson JL. Youth cannabis use in Canada post-legalization: service providers' perceptions, practices, and recommendations. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:36. [PMID: 37349741 PMCID: PMC10288694 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00550-1] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2018, Canada legalized recreational cannabis use with the purpose of protecting youth and restricting access. However, concerns have been raised that this objective has not been met as rates of cannabis use among youth aged 16-24 have not declined. Youth cannabis use is associated with various adverse effects including psychosis, anxiety, depression, suicidality, respiratory distress, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, and intoxications. Service providers play a crucial role in addressing youth cannabis use. This study aimed to understand Ontario service providers' perceptions, practices, and recommendations on youth cannabis use. METHODS This mixed method study included a survey and two focus groups. The survey was distributed to mental health service providers serving youth aged 16-24 across Ontario who were given the option to participate in a focus group. The survey included closed and open-ended questions regarding perceptions, practices, and recommendations, while the focus groups explored these categories in greater depth. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze close-ended questions and interpretative content analysis was applied for open-ended questions. Focus group data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS The survey was completed by 160 service providers and 12 participated in two focus groups. Regarding perceptions, 60% of survey participants agreed with legalization, 26% had a strong understanding of medical versus recreational cannabis, 84% believed that cannabis has physical and mental health risks, and 49% perceived stigmatization. Less than half of the survey participants reported screening or assessing cannabis use, 16% stated they are highly familiar with treating cannabis use, and 67% reported that they rarely work with families. Subthemes identified in the focus groups under perceptions included normalization and stigmatization, harms for youth, and stigma, racism, and discrimination. Subthemes under practice included cannabis not being the primary focus, challenges with screening, assessment, and intervention, and referral to specialized services. Both the survey and focus group participants recommended increasing public education, enhancing service provider training, improving regulation and policies, reducing stigma and minimization, improving service access, and providing more culturally responsive services. CONCLUSION Youth cannabis use in Canada remains a significant public health concern, necessitating a more comprehensive plan to protect Ontario youth and reduce associated harms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toula Kourgiantakis
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada.
| | - Eunjung Lee
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - A Kumsal Tekirdag Kosar
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Christine Tait
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Carrie K Y Lau
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Sandra McNeil
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Shelley Craig
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Rachelle Ashcroft
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Charmaine C Williams
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Abby L Goldstein
- Department of Applied Psychology and Human Development, Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Uppala Chandrasekera
- Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto, 246 Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON, M5S 1V4, Canada
| | - Deepy Sur
- Ontario Association of Social Workers (OASW), Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - J L Henderson
- Margaret and Wallace McCain Centre for Child, Youth and Family Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Robinson DJ, Hanson K, Jain AB, Kichler JC, Mehta G, Melamed OC, Vallis M, Bajaj HS, Barnes T, Gilbert J, Honshorst K, Houlden R, Kim J, Lewis J, MacDonald B, MacKay D, Mansell K, Rabi D, Sherifali D, Senior P. Diabetes and Mental Health. Can J Diabetes 2023; 47:308-344. [PMID: 37321702 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcjd.2023.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
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Walsh CA, Struble CA, Aharonovich E, Shmulewitz D, Borodovsky J, Habib MI, Budney A, Livne O, Hasin DS. Evaluating cannabis exposure in survey items: Insights, strategies, and remaining challenges identified from cognitive interviewing. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2023; 7:100161. [PMID: 37179574 PMCID: PMC10173391 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2023.100161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Background The diversity in characteristics of cannabis products and behavior patterns make evaluation of cannabis exposure in population-based, self-report surveys challenging. Accurate identification of cannabis exposure and related outcomes necessitates a thorough understanding of participants' interpretations of survey questions assessing cannabis consumption behaviors. Objectives The current study utilized cognitive interviewing to gain insight on participants' interpretation of items in a self-reported survey instrument used to estimate the quantity of THC consumed in population samples. Methods Cognitive interviewing was used to evaluate survey items assessing cannabis use frequency, routes of administration, quantity, potency, and perceived "typical patterns" of use. Ten participants ≥18 years (n = 4 cisgender-men; n = 3 cisgender-women; n = 3 non-binary/transgender) who had used cannabis plant material or concentrates in the past week were recruited to take a self-administered questionnaire and subsequently answer a series of scripted probes regarding survey items. Results While most items presented no issues with comprehension, participants identified several areas of ambiguity in question or response item wording or in visual cues included in the survey. Generally, participants with irregular use patterns (i.e., non-daily use) reported more difficulty recalling the time or quantity of cannabis use. Findings resulted in several changes to the updated survey, including updated reference images and new quantity/frequency of use items specific to the route of administration. Conclusion Incorporating cognitive interviewing into cannabis measurement development among a sample of knowledgeable cannabis consumers led to improvements in assessing cannabis exposure in population surveys, which may otherwise have been missed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire A. Walsh
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Cara A. Struble
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Efrat Aharonovich
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Dvora Shmulewitz
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Jacob Borodovsky
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Mohammad I. Habib
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Alan Budney
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
| | - Ofir Livne
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Deborah S. Hasin
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 1051 Riverside Drive, New York, NY 10032, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722W 168th St, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Coelho SG, Wardell JD. Characterizing heterogeneity among people who use cannabis for medicinal reasons: A latent class analysis of a nationally representative Canadian sample. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 117:104076. [PMID: 37247474 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many individuals who use cannabis report doing so for medicinal reasons. Few studies have explored heterogeneity within this population, which may be important to inform targeted interventions. This study used latent class analysis to identify subgroups of people who use cannabis for medicinal reasons and their sociodemographic and cannabis-risk-related correlates. METHOD Data were drawn from the 2019 Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey, which is a representative survey of Canadians ages 15 years and older. Data from 814 individuals reporting past-year use of cannabis for medicinal or mixed medicinal and non-medicinal reasons were included. Latent class analysis was conducted with forms of cannabis used, cannabis use frequency, concurrent non-medicinal cannabis use, and the medical conditions and symptoms cannabis was used to manage as indicators. RESULTS Four distinct latent classes of medicinal cannabis use were identified: a non-daily cannabis flower for mental health and sleep class (39.56% of the sample), a non-daily cannabis flower for pain class (26.41% of the sample), a non-daily cannabis oil for physical health class (20.15% of the sample), and a daily multi-form cannabis for mental health and non-medical reasons class (13.88% of the sample). Sociodemographic factors and risk level for cannabis-related harms were associated with latent class membership. CONCLUSIONS Results of this study reveal considerable heterogeneity among people reporting medicinal cannabis use and suggest that the distinct patterns of cannabis use behaviors and motives observed may be important for understanding risk for cannabis-related harms in this population. Findings underscore a need for harm reduction interventions tailored toward specific patterns of medicinal cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey D Wardell
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
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Wilson J, Mills KL, Sunderland M, Freeman TP, Teesson M, Haber PS, Marel C. Different Tokes for Different Folks: Use of Cannabis Products Among a Longitudinal Cohort of People with Heroin Dependence. Int J Ment Health Addict 2023:1-17. [PMID: 37363767 PMCID: PMC10184640 DOI: 10.1007/s11469-023-01071-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Co-occurring cannabis use is common among those with opioid use disorder (OUD), but the extent to which it is harmful may be due to its preparation and concentration of various cannabinoids. The current study aimed to examine the prevalence of, and long-term associations with, the use of varying cannabis products among a naturalistic longitudinal cohort of people with heroin dependence. A total of 615 people, most of whom were entering treatment, were recruited to the Australian Treatment Outcome Study (ATOS) in 2001-2002. This analysis focuses on the 401 participants followed up at 18-20 years post baseline. Structured interviews assessed the use of cannabis products, as well as demographic and health covariates. High-potency/indoor-grown cannabis was the most common type ever used (68.8%), and in the past 12 months (80.4%), followed by low potency/outdoor grown (22.4%; 14.4%), and less so for other types of cannabis. After controlling for covariates, older age at baseline was associated with lower odds of high-potency cannabis being used as the primary type in the past 12 months. In contrast to studies of non-opioid dependent populations, common use of high-potency cannabis was not associated with more severe health outcomes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11469-023-01071-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Wilson
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, Level 6, Jane Foss Russell Building, G02, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Katherine L. Mills
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, Level 6, Jane Foss Russell Building, G02, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Matthew Sunderland
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, Level 6, Jane Foss Russell Building, G02, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Tom P. Freeman
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY UK
| | - Maree Teesson
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, Level 6, Jane Foss Russell Building, G02, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Paul S. Haber
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
- Drug Health Services, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW 2050 Australia
| | - Christina Marel
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, Level 6, Jane Foss Russell Building, G02, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
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