Youth Cannabis Use Declines in Canada Post-Legalization, Study Reveals
A new study shows a decline in cannabis use among Canadian youth following legalization, though risk factors have shifted, calling for tailored prevention efforts
Key Points
- 1Youth cannabis use in Canada has declined post-legalization
- 2Risk factors for cannabis use have shifted, emphasizing mental health
- 3The study used data from 85 schools across six provinces
- 4Researchers call for tailored intervention programs
- 5The study highlights the need for proactive prevention efforts
A recent study has revealed a decline in cannabis use among Canadian youth following the legalization of non-medical cannabis in October 2018. This research, published in Addictive Behavior Reports, utilized data from the COMPASS study, which involved 85 secondary schools across six provinces. Researchers compared youth cannabis use and risk factors from the 2017-2018 school year to the 2021-2022 school year, aiming to understand the impact of legalization on youth behavior
The study notes that Canada has historically seen higher rates of youth cannabis use compared to other countries. However, the immediate aftermath of legalization did not show significant changes in use trends. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced complexities in later years, yet data indicated a general decline in youth cannabis consumption. The study focused on identifying changes in behavioral and psychosocial factors influencing cannabis use among youth
Using a robust statistical model, the study assessed cannabis use frequency and 31 other variables, including academic performance, social influences, and mental health conditions. Participants were surveyed on their cannabis use over the past year, with those using cannabis at least monthly classified as current users. The study highlighted a shift in risk factors, emphasizing a rise in internalizing mental health conditions as a significant concern post-legalization
The findings suggest that while overall youth cannabis use has decreased, the profile of risk factors has evolved, necessitating tailored prevention efforts. The researchers underscored the importance of developing early intervention programs that address the changing risk landscape. The study's large sample size is a notable strength, although limitations include potential biases from the convenience sample of schools and the absence of data on parental cannabis use
Looking ahead, the study calls for targeted intervention strategies that are responsive to the evolving risk factors associated with youth cannabis use. This includes addressing mental health concerns and enhancing psychosocial support systems. The researchers advocate for a proactive approach in prevention efforts to mitigate the potential long-term impacts of cannabis use among adolescents in Canada