Recent data indicates a significant trend in cannabis consumption among younger Canadians. Over one-third of adults aged 18 to 44 have reported using cannabis in the past year, showcasing a shift towards higher acceptance and usage of the substance among this demographic. This contrasts sharply with older Canadians, where only one in seven adults over 45 years old reported similar usage.
Preferences and Patterns in Cannabis Products
The types of cannabis products favored by consumers vary across different age groups. Younger Canadians tend to prefer dried leaf or flower and edible cannabis, while older demographics lean towards cannabis topicals and oral oils. This distinction highlights the diverse market of cannabis products catering to the varied preferences and needs of consumers.
Understanding Usage: Recreation or Dependency?
With the rise in cannabis use, concerns about dependency surface. A study found that almost three in four daily cannabis consumers may be at risk for developing cannabis use disorder, suggesting that frequent use could be indicative of dependence, especially among youth.
Gender Differences in Cannabis Consumption
The survey also sheds light on gender-based consumption patterns. Among adults over 25, men are more likely to use dried leaf or flower products, whereas women show a preference for edibles. Interestingly, such gender differences are not observed in the 18–24 age bracket.
Legalization and Its Aftermath
Five years post-legalization, the landscape of cannabis use in Canada has evolved, with younger adults leading the charge in consumption. The preference for legal sources due to product safety concerns is a positive outcome, reflecting the success of regulatory measures.