The proximity of cannabis shops is reshaping drinking habits – and the findings might surprise you! A significant study focused on the state of Oregon reveals that adults who reside close to cannabis retail outlets tend to use cannabis more frequently while simultaneously reducing their alcohol consumption.
Conducted by a research team led by David Kerr from Oregon State University, this research analyzed data from over 60,000 residents over a nine-year period, using the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System survey managed by the Oregon Health Authority. Notably, participants were not required to identify the locations of cannabis retailers; instead, researchers matched participants' ZIP codes with the addresses of licensed cannabis shops.
"In essence, our findings indicate that Oregonians living near a higher number of licensed cannabis retailers were significantly more likely to use cannabis at least 10 times a month compared to those in areas with fewer shops," explained Kerr, a professor specializing in psychological science. "Additionally, we noted a substantial decrease in reported heavy drinking among adults residing closer to these retailers."
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heavy drinking is classified as consuming eight or more alcoholic beverages per week for women and 15 or more for men. Kerr's study found these trends to be especially marked among two specific age groups: young adults aged 21 to 24 and seniors aged 65 and older.
For younger individuals, Kerr emphasized that brain development is ongoing, particularly in areas susceptible to the harmful effects of substances like cannabis. This age range coincides with the peak period for cannabis use disorder, where individuals may continue using cannabis despite facing adverse outcomes, which might include social challenges, neglect of responsibilities, or risky behaviors such as driving under the influence.
"These insights imply that we need tailored prevention strategies that consider age-specific factors," Kerr stated. "Communities would greatly benefit from diverse policies that take into account the growing evidence showing that cannabis is marketed in ways that particularly attract young adults, especially those living in areas with abundant access to high-potency products."
Conversely, for older adults, the perception of risks associated with regular cannabis use has diminished in recent years. This trend is particularly evident among those with chronic health conditions who might seek cannabis for therapeutic purposes, albeit in ways that lack robust scientific backing or may pose new health issues.
Kerr aptly summarized, "The reality is intricate and nuanced. While cannabis is recognized for its potential benefits in treating certain ailments like chronic pain and is deemed safer than opioids, reducing alcohol consumption is undoubtedly a more health-positive choice."
Kerr speculates that individuals are not necessarily choosing their residences based on the proximity of cannabis retailers; rather, enhanced access to these outlets could influence residents' consumption behaviors. In Oregon, the retail sale of recreational cannabis began in 2015, with legislation allowing counties and municipalities the option to prohibit cannabis sales, although such bans are only applicable to non-city areas.
"There are various methods through which retail access to cannabis can be regulated across different government tiers," Kerr suggested. "It is crucial to strike a balance with policies and prevention measures that weigh the advantages of cannabis legalization against any potential risks."
This study, which is now available in preprint format, received funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a part of the National Institutes of Health. It will also be published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine soon.
What do you think about the findings? Do you agree that increased access to cannabis could reduce alcohol use, or do you think there are other factors at play? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
/ Public Release. This information is presented as an unaltered representation of the original authors' findings for clarity and informative purposes. Mirage.News does not endorse specific viewpoints, and all opinions expressed belong solely to the authors. For the full study, click here (https://www.miragenews.com/nearby-cannabis-shops-boost-use-cut-alcohol-1563988/).
