Target specific groups to reduce pot health risks, study urges
Benedikt Fischer, 778.782.5274, benedikt_fischer@sfu.ca
Julie Ovenell-Carter/Marianne Meadahl, PAMR, 778.782.3210
New research led by Simon Fraser University Faculty of Health Sciences professor Benedikt Fischer recommends an end to Canada’s one-size-fits-all approach to managing the health impacts of cannabis use.
In a study published in the International Journal of Methods in Psychiatric Research, a pan-Canadian team of researchers argues that the current policy of “universal use prohibition” is ineffective. It should instead be replaced with a public health framework that aims “effective interventions” at a minority of early- and high-frequency users who face the greatest health risks.
The study investigated usage patterns of 1,303 current cannabis users in the Canadian general population, based on the 2008 Canadian Alcohol and Drug Use Monitoring Service.
Researchers identified four distinct classes of users sorted by frequency of use, age of first use, and reason for use (social or medical). They found that Class 4 users—a group distinguished by early (at or under age 15) and frequent (daily or near-daily) use—were more likely than the others to face health risks.
Notes Fischer: “This group was disproportionately linked to key harms, including using other illicit drugs, driving while intoxicated, substance abuse problems and medical issues.
“While most cannabis users in Canada use the drug infrequently and presumably without major health risks, it’s apparent that public health concerns rise across the identified user classes. There is therefore a pressing need to target interventions at this sub-population of users.”
Recommended interventions include:
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Implementing realistic, appropriate and health-focused educational initiatives aimed at school-aged children
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Establishing effective monitoring strategies to identify young high-risk users
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Creating ‘lower risk cannabis use’ guidelines (similar to those already in place for alcohol)
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Offering new and/or more accessible treatment options
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Selectively applying laws aimed at cannabis use only in those areas (such as driving under the influence) where there is a proven benefit to public health
The analysis was supported with funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Michael Smith Foundation for Health, among others.
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