Association between small airways dysfunction and THC use disorders in the general Swiss population

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Cannabinoid Research
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Small airways dysfunction (SAD) is a condition that may be linked to Δ⁹-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use, potentially increasing peripheral airway resistance.
• Understanding this association is crucial for respiratory health management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use disorders and the presence of spirometry-defined small airways dysfunction (SAD).

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the Swiss urban cohort CoLaus|PsyCoLaus.
• Defined SAD using maximal mid-expiratory flow (MMEF) criteria (<65% predicted value or
• Assessed THC use disorders via semi-structured interviews and analyzed associations using logistic and linear regression, adjusting for covariates like smoking status and eosinophils.

Main Results:

• In the baseline cohort (n=2826), THC use disorders were significantly associated with SAD (MMEF<65%PV: OR 1.94; MMEF
• Associations persisted in adjusted models, and THC use disorders correlated with lower MMEF values.
• In the follow-up cohort (n=1841), associations were observed in unadjusted models, indicating a potential link.

Conclusions:

• THC use disorders appear to be associated with an increased risk of spirometry-defined SAD.
• Findings suggest lower small airways spirometric values in individuals with THC use disorders.
• Highlights the importance of screening for THC use in patients evaluated for SAD.