Mode Matters: Investigating the Associations Between Mode of Cannabis Use and Self-Reported Physical and...

The legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada and its subsequent increases in use prevalence have sparked concerns about its potential health effects, particularly for young users. Moreover, the diversification of cannabis product availability and modes of use has greatly outpaced our understanding of how these variations affect user experiences. This study aimed to fill knowledge gaps in the health effects of cannabis across modes of use, with a focus on sex differences.

A sample of 206 young adult post-secondary students (62% female) primarily above the legal age of purchase, who regularly used cannabis participated in a 14-d ecological momentary assessment. Participants completed two daily surveys on their mobile device, reporting details about their most recent cannabis use occasion. Multilevel modeling was used to analyze the relationship between mode of use and reported health effects among males and females.

Self-reported effects varied significantly by mode of use. Bongs predicted significantly more physical and psychological health effects. Joint-use occasions were associated with significantly more physical health effects among males, and significantly more psychological effects among females. The use of edibles among females predicted significantly fewer physical health effects, while females' use of hand pipes predicted significantly more psychological health effects.

The current findings indicate that the mode of cannabis use critically influences the physical and psychological experiences of young adults. Understanding these differences is vital for developing targeted public health interventions and providing evidence-based guidance for decision makers and healthcare providers.