Predictors of Ever Using Marijuana Among US First Responders

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Occupational Health
• Substance Use Research

Background:

• First responders face unique occupational stressors.
• Understanding substance use patterns is crucial for this population's well-being.
• Marijuana use prevalence and associated factors among first responders remain understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the prevalence of ever using marijuana among US career first responders.
• To identify demographic, employment, and behavioral factors associated with marijuana use in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of health survey cohort data from 1310 employed and retired US first responders (2018-2024).
• Binary logistic regression models were used to assess associations.
• Key variables included marijuana use frequency, demographics, employment status, and risky health behaviors.

Main Results:

• 15.3% of first responders reported ever using marijuana.
• Highest prevalence was observed among currently employed firefighter/paramedic/emergency medical technicians (45.5%).
• Ever marijuana use was significantly associated with binge drinking (aOR=1.45), former smoking (aOR=2.42), current smoking (aOR=3.61), and retirement (aOR=1.85).

Conclusions:

• Marijuana use is prevalent among US first responders, particularly among firefighter/paramedic/emergency medical technician roles.
• Binge drinking, smoking behaviors, and retirement status are significant correlates of ever using marijuana in this population.
• Findings highlight the need for targeted substance use prevention and intervention strategies for first responders.