Age related differences in cannabis use and subjective effects in a large population-based survey of adult athletes
Source: Zeiger et al. Journal of Cannabis Research (2019) 1:6 https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-019-0006-9
Abstract
Background
There is a paucity of information regarding cannabis use behaviors in adult community-based athletes as most research in athletes has focused on misuse of cannabis in elite, adolescent, university-based athletes. We aimed to determine whether age related differences exist in patterns of cannabis use and subjective effects to cannabis in adult athletes.
Methods
The Athlete PEACE Survey used mainly social media and email blasts to recruit and SurveyGizmo to collect data. Cannabis patterns of use (duration of use, frequency of use, routes of administration, cannabinoid used, concurrent use with exercise), benefits, and adverse effects were reported. Age was reported by decade from 21 to ≥60. Age trends in cannabis use patterns and subjective effects were assessed using linear trend analysis.
Results
Of the 1161 participants, 301 (26%) athletes currently used cannabis. Younger athletes compared to older athletes reported significantly more positive and adverse subjective effects to cannabis, used cannabis longer, and used both tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol for medical and recreational purposes. Younger athletes used cannabis concurrently with exercise more often than older athletes and consumed edibles, vaporized, and smoked more than older athletes.
Conclusions
We found age-related cannabis patterns of use and subjective effects to cannabis. Concerns about cannabis misuse and abuse in athletes maybe overstated with the potential benefits (improved sleep, decreased anxiety, less pain) outweighing the adverse effects (increased anxiety, increased appetite, difficulty concentrating).
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This article makes an interesting (and rather bold claim) that the positive effects of cannabis on athletes might outweigh the negative effects. The researchers are honest about this study's limitations, so I would be interested in seeing if other studies back up this conclusion (especially studies that actually prove causation between cannabis use and being a better or worse athlete). Overall, this is an interesting concept and one that will hopefully be explored more. Thanks for posting.
Hi Laura! Thanks for reading and commenting. It is necessary to highlight that the information comes from a quantitative survey with 301 current cannabis users, so the results refer to what those persons reported as their subjective experience, and not to the authors' thoughts. I agree with you that these are interesting findings, and from my perspective, we should use them to raise awareness about the adverse effects of cannabis use, particularly in the younger population. This publication coincides with other research regarding the low risk-perception of cannabis use.
In reply to This article makes an… by Laura Fulton