Gender differences among cannabis self-cultivators in Spain

The increase in cannabis use coincides with the proliferation of small-scale cannabis cultivation. These crops facilitate substance availability and increased use. Some investigations have studied the characteristics of small-scale cultivators; however, it is not known whether their profiles differ by gender. The aim of the present study was to analyse differences among growers regarding sociodemographic variables, patterns of use and health problems from a gender perspective. A descriptive observational study was designed with a sample of 219 cultivators (157 men and 62 women), aged between 18 and 34. Problematic use of cannabis (CPQ), cannabis dependence (SDS), patterns of abuse (CAST), risky alcohol use (AUDIT), nicotine dependence (FTND) and sociodemographic variables (ad hoc questionnaire) were analysed. The results showed convergence between men and women in some indicators: early onset and daily cannabis use, psychosocial problems deriving from use, a similar number of problematic use and cannabis dependence cases, as well as a polydrug trend. Conversely, men reported greater physical problems and more intensive use of cannabis and alcohol. Women cannabis growers presented a similar profile to their male counterparts, whereas studies of the general population have shown cannabis use to be higher among men than women. This fact supports the relevance of researching specific risk factors related to gender, which can exert a differential influence on the intensity of use, and their relationship with small-scale cultivation. Implications of these results for planning preventive strategies and treatment are discussed from a gender perspective.