An Examination of the Sex-Specific Psychophysiological Markers of Risk for Physical and Mental Health Problems Across Modes of Cannabis Use
Thompson, K., Watt, M., Goldstein, A., Asbridge, M., DeWolf, D., Cooper, S., Macdonald-Spracklin, R., & Frank, D.
This study aimed to identify health risks associated with different modes of cannabis use. Researchers’ two main objectives were to: (i) examine sex and gender-based patterns in how cannabis is used, and (ii) investigate how physical and cognitive outcomes were associated with different modes of cannabis use. The researchers recruited 297 university students (age 18-25 years) who were current cannabis users to do an online survey (62% female, 62% woman). From these participants, 206 students went on to complete a daily diary, twice a day (4000 observations in total). A subgroup of 100 participants used a smart watch to track physiological indicators.
The researchers found that bongs were the most frequently used consumption method for both sexes, followed by joints and vaporizers. Males were more likely to report using concentrates and females were more likely to report using oils. Males reported using higher quantities and higher-strength products relative to females. Using higher strength products increased the risk of experiencing physical symptoms (e.g., dizziness, headaches) and cognitive effects (e.g., memory/concentration problems, paranoia). For both sexes, simultaneously drinking and using cannabis was associated with an increased heart rate and an increased likelihood of experiencing physical and cognitive symptoms. Using edibles increased amount of sleep, whereas vaporizers decreased amount of sleep.
The researchers recommend policies which restrict product potency as valuable harm reduction tools. In addition, they recommend that policies should prohibit the purchase of product in bulk or the sale of very high THC products, such as concentrates. Finally, they recommend a series of measures limiting the potential co-use of alcohol and cannabis.
Publications:
Thompson, K., Thibault, T., & Peters, A. L. (2023). A better high? Understanding mode preferences among young adult cannabis users. Canadian Journal of Behavioural Science / Revue canadienne des sciences du comportement. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/cbs0000368
MacDonald-Spracklin, R., DeWolf, D., & Thompson, K. (2023). Investigating the acute health effects of simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use [Manuscript in review].
Thompson, K., DeWolf, D., & Thibault, T. (2023). Associations between mode of use and cannabis related risks [Manuscript in preparation].