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Prenatal tobacco-cannabis co-use: A mixed-methods, convergent parallel study
Kristine Alaniz1, Emmanuel Ngui2, Young Cho3
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin - Madison, McConnell Hall, 4th Floor, 1010 Mound Street, Madison, Wisconsin 53715 USA.
Introduction:
Tobacco-cannabis co-use among vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant people, is a growing public health concern. While prenatal tobacco use has been declining, rates of prenatal cannabis use have more than doubled in recent years. Although there is growing evidence around the health effects of prenatal co-use, little is known about reasons for co-use or cessation behaviors during pregnancy.
Methods:
This descriptive, mixed-methods study aimed to discern reasons for co-use and cessation patterns among birthing people. Surveys and interviews were conducted with adults who reported tobacco-cannabis co-use during pregnancy and were enrolled in a community-based program in Wisconsin between 2022 and 2023. Quantitative data were analyzed using Fisher's Exact Tests and logistic regression. Qualitative data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. A mixed methods convergent parallel design integrated the findings.
Results:
Findings from 46 surveys and 19 interviews revealed key differences in cannabis and tobacco use intentions and cessation during pregnancy. Results also indicated that individuals tend to view tobacco and cannabis use as distinct behaviors, contrary to previous research. Findings underscore the interconnectedness of mental health, stress, and co-use.
Conclusions:
Future efforts should partner with communities to identify strategies that empower pregnant people to make informed decisions about co-use during pregnancy.
