Cannabis Sensitization and Allergy in Cannabis Industry Workers, Recreational Cannabis Users, and Nonusers: A Cross-sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate respiratory and allergic health symptoms and sensitization to cannabis in cannabis workers while controlling for recreational cannabis use.

METHODS

We compared allergic and respiratory symptoms, lung function, and airway inflammation among cannabis workers ( n = 42) and recreational cannabis users ( n = 20) and nonusers ( n = 20) with no occupational exposure.

RESULTS

In multivariable regressions adjusted for recreational cannabis use, cannabis workers trended toward increased airway inflammation and decreased pulmonary function when compared to nonworkers. Compared to nonworkers, cannabis workers exhibited increased odds of cannabis sensitization on skin prick test (odds ratio, 9.5; 95% confidence interval, 1.38 to 193; P = 0.05) and reported a higher prevalence of allergic symptoms (odds ratio, 3.7; 95% confidence interval, 0.91, 16.9; P = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that occupational exposures contribute to the respiratory and allergic effects seen in cannabis workers, regardless of recreational cannabis use.