Perceived effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) content on cannabis-related health risks and benefits.

OBJECTIVE

Despite being modifiable targets of behavior, investigation of health perceptions of cannabis remains limited, particularly in terms of the different forms by which cannabis is used. We conducted two parallel experimental studies to address perceptions of a range of specific health consequences of cannabis based on cannabinoid content and route of administration (i.e., flower and edible products).

METHOD: Using registered between-subjects experimental designs, young adult college students recruited from a U.S. national collaboration (N = 2,047) were randomly assigned to answer questions about positive and negative health perceptions based on one of three combinations of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)/cannabidiol (CBD) potencies for flower products (Study 1; N = 1,022) or edible products (Study 2; N = 1,025).

RESULTS

For flower products only, the CBD-dominant product was perceived as better for health relative to the THC-dominant and equal THC/CBD strains (p = .002, d = .21). No other significant effects emerged for perceived benefits, perceived risks, willingness to purchase, or willingness to use the product for flower or edible products for CBD dominant versus other strains or THC dominant versus other strains comparisons. Additionally, these patterns were not moderated by current cannabis use status nor cannabis tolerance.

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes across these two studies suggest that young adult college students may draw minimal distinctions between health consequences of cannabis based on cannabinoid content or route of administration. These findings provide valuable insight for researchers and health professionals regarding communication and prevention efforts around cannabis. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).