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Association between small airways dysfunction and THC use disorders in the general Swiss population
Kevin Nguyen1, Marie-Pierre F Strippoli2, Martin Preisig2
1Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
Respiratory Medicine
|July 22, 2026
Summary
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use disorders are linked to small airways dysfunction (SAD), increasing the risk of respiratory issues. Screening for THC is recommended in patients with SAD.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Cannabinoid Research
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Small airways dysfunction (SAD) is a condition that can increase peripheral airway resistance.
- Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure may be associated with SAD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use disorders and 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 lower limit of normal).
- Assessed THC use disorders via semi-structured interviews and analyzed associations using logistic and linear regression, adjusting for covariates.
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, indicating a robust link between THC use disorders and SAD.
- THC use disorders were also associated with lower MMEF values in the baseline cohort.
Conclusions:
- THC use disorders appear to increase the risk of spirometry-defined SAD.
- Findings suggest a need for screening for THC use in individuals evaluated for SAD.
- This population-based study highlights a potential link between cannabinoid use and small airway health.
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