People aged 25 to 34 and over 55 were also more likely to report daily use compared to younger adults, the authors wrote in the journal Addiction.
Experts from King’s College London, the University of Bath and Action on Smoking and Health (Ash) said the findings “challenge some common assumptions” about cannabis use.
Dr Hannah Walsh, co-lead author and research associate at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King’s College London, said: “How often people use cannabis is as important as whether they use it, because daily or near-daily use carries a higher risk of harm to physical and mental health.
“Our results suggest that this pattern is more common among people in midlife, unemployed people, and people who also smoke tobacco.
“This gives a much clearer picture of those who could benefit most from support, for example those accessing employment or cessation services.”
“Only tells part of the story”
Dr Elle Wadsworth, co-lead author from the University of Bath, said: “Knowing whether someone uses cannabis or not only tells part of the story, because someone who uses cannabis once or twice a year is very different to someone who uses it every day.
“We chose to examine frequency of use to better understand consumption patterns and identify people most likely to benefit from support. »
Hazel Cheeseman, chief executive of Ash, the public health charity, added: “This research challenges some common assumptions about cannabis use.
“While younger adults are more likely to use cannabis, frequent use is more common among older age groups and people who smoke tobacco.
“Smoking cannabis, especially mixed with tobacco, carries health risks and can make it more difficult to quit nicotine.
“Smoking cessation services have the opportunity to identify and support people who also use cannabis, and drug treatment services should talk to people about their tobacco use.
“Tackling the harms of both requires a more concerted approach. »
Gn Health
