How Quantity of Cannabis Affects Problems
Author Information
Author(s): Nicole Walden, Mitch Earleywine
Primary Institution: University at Albany, State University of New York
Hypothesis
Frequency and quantity of cannabis use predict respiratory symptoms, social problems, and dependence.
Conclusion
Quantity is an important predictor of cannabis-related outcomes, and the three quantity measures provide useful information about use.
Supporting Evidence
- Frequency of use, monthly consumption, and levels of intoxication predicted respiratory symptoms, social problems, and dependence.
- Each measure of quantity accounted for significant variance in outcomes after controlling for frequency.
- Participants reported an average of 1.37 dependence symptoms and 4.02 cannabis-related social problems.
Takeaway
The more cannabis you use and the more intense your high, the more likely you are to have problems like respiratory issues and dependence.
Methodology
Participants completed an internet survey about their cannabis use, including frequency, quantity, and levels of intoxication.
Potential Biases
The sample may not represent the larger population of cannabis users, as it was predominantly Caucasian and educated.
Limitations
Participants were recruited from organizations advocating drug policy reform, which may have led to underreporting of negative experiences.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 3,884 men and 2,103 women, aged 18 to 88, with 89% Caucasian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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