Despite a provincial ban, a quarter of Quebecers continue to use cannabis vapes, according to new figures from the Institut de la Statistique du Québec (ISQ). The study reveals that 25 percent of Quebecers who reported consuming cannabis in the past year opted for vaping as their preferred method.
The Persistence of Cannabis Vaping
The ban on cannabis vape pens in Quebec was implemented in 2019, yet the allure of vaping persists. The latest data shows that nearly 73% of people in Quebec aged 15 to 17 who used cannabis in the past year reported vaping it, along with 55% of those aged 18 to 20, 14% of those aged 21–24, 9% of those aged 25–34, and 3% of those aged 35–54. Even among Quebecers aged 55 and older, just under 1% reported using a cannabis vape in the past year.
Sourcing Cannabis Vapes
Since there is no legal source for cannabis vapes within Quebec, residents have turned to alternative means. According to the ISQ survey, Quebecers sourced their vapes from various channels:
- Family and Friends: Some obtained vapes from family and friends.
- Legal Sources in Other Provinces: Others procured them from legal sources in other provinces.
- Illicit Suppliers and Online: A portion of users acquired vapes from illicit suppliers or online platforms.
Notably, Newfoundland and Labrador had also previously banned the sale of cannabis vapes but began allowing them in 2022.
Awareness of THC Content
Approximately 49% of those who vaped cannabis in the past year reported that they did not know the amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in the cannabis they primarily vaped. However, younger individuals were more likely to be aware of the THC content in their vape products.
Perceptions of Risk
When it comes to health risks associated with vaping cannabis, opinions vary. The survey found that:
- 46% of Quebecers aged 15 and over believed vaping cannabis posed a high health risk.
- 43% considered it a moderate risk.
- Approximately 11% believed that vaping cannabis carried minimal or no risk.
Overall Trends
The 2023 Quebec Cannabis Survey (EQC) collected data from 13,209 people between February and July 2023. The study also revealed a slight decrease in the percentage of Quebecers who reported using cannabis at least once in the past year, dropping from 19% in 2022 to 17% in 2023. Most Quebecers who consume cannabis still prefer smoking it (81%), while 31% reported using edibles, and 23% consumed oral cannabis drops (similar to cannabis oils).
In summary, despite the ban, cannabis vaping remains prevalent among Quebecers, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and public health awareness regarding cannabis consumption methods.