Abstract
Aims: Assess key cannabis use, risk and outcome characteristics among high-frequency cannabis users within a university student sample in Toronto, Canada.Methods: N = 134 active universities students (ages of 18–28) using cannabis at least three times per week were recruited by mass advertisement, telephone-screened and anonymously assessed by an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Relevant descriptive statistics are presented; subsequent univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses (MLRA) identified independent predictors of experiencing physical or mental health problems.Findings: The majority of respondents used cannabis >5 years, almost daily and >1 times/day, socially and medically on occasion. In past 30 days, 79% used cannabis by deep inhalation, 38% drove a car after use, 45% had difficulty controlling or limiting use and 52% experienced negative mental/physical health effects, with few respondents reporting any past treatment. The MLRA identified ‘difficulty controlling or limiting use’ (OR = 3.40, 95% CI = 1.58–7.30), ‘non-white ethnicity’ (OR = 2.78, 95% CI = 1.13–6.83), and ‘living with others’ (OR = 2.37, 95% CI = 1.02–5.55) as independent predictors (p < 0.01) of negative health problems.Conclusions: Our sample was characterized by several use-related risks and problems, which may result in long-term burden of disease. University environment may offer suitable settings for targeted interventions. Determinants of future cannabis use and problems should be assessed in this population.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have