Gender Differences in Correlates of Cannabis Consumers Among Youth: Results From the 2023 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth.

PURPOSE: In 2018, the Cannabis Act legalized and regulated the production and sale of cannabis for nonmedical purposes in Canada. This study aimed to (1) describe gender differences in patterns of cannabis use among youth and (2) identify demographic factors and life circumstances associated with cannabis use among youth by gender.

METHODS

Respondents were youth aged 12-17 from the 2023 cross-sectional Canadian Health Survey of Children and Youth (n = 11,748). Separate regression models tested differences in cannabis use outcomes between boys+ and girls+ and examined the influence of correlates of past 12-month cannabis use among boys+ and girls+ separately.

RESULTS

There were few gender differences in prevalence of cannabis use outcomes. More boys+ than girls+ reported that regular cannabis use was associated with no/slight risk of harm (p < .001). Of youth who reported vaping cannabis, approximately 90% reported vaping cannabis liquids. The following factors were associated with higher odds of past 12-month cannabis use among boys+: older child age, higher parental education, and more frequent discrimination; among girls+: poorer mental health; and among boys+ and girls+: use of cigarettes, alcohol, and alternative tobacco products (p < .01 for all).

DISCUSSION: Using nationally representative data, we identified relationships between cannabis use and other substance use (among boys+ and girls+), negative life experiences (among boys+), and poorer mental health (among girls+). Findings highlight the need for interventions and public education activities for youth that consider the link between mental health, negative life experiences, and substance use. Continued monitoring of cannabis use among youth is warranted.