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Recent Marijuana Use Among Young Adults, 2015–2018, USA

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Abstract

Marijuana is the most commonly used drug across all groups. A greater understanding of risk factors associated with recent use can inform health prevention messaging and behavioral interventions. Pooled data from the 2015–2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health were utilized among 89,446 individuals ages 18–34. Weighted logistic regression analyses, controlling for covariates, were utilized to determine conditional associations to past-30-day use. A sizeable percentage (18.5%) of individuals reported smoking marijuana in the past 30 days. Individuals who identify as African American or multi-racial, gay/lesbian, bisexual, reported their health as poor, not covered by health insurance, reported prior drug use, or who had reported any thoughts/plans of suicide were at risk for use. Of concern, high rates of alcohol (14.7%) and cocaine (1.50%) were found among users. We believe our findings can inform harm reduction efforts and policy creation.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Health Promotion and Education, Center for Prevention Science, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45221-0068, USA

    Rebecca A. Vidourek, Keith A. King & Alexander Oliver

  2. Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, 76107, USA

    R. Andrew Yockey

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  1. Rebecca A. Vidourek
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  2. R. Andrew Yockey
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  3. Keith A. King
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  4. Alexander Oliver
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Correspondence to Rebecca A. Vidourek.

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Vidourek, R.A., Yockey, R.A., King, K.A. et al. Recent Marijuana Use Among Young Adults, 2015–2018, USA. Int J Ment Health Addiction 20, 3075–3085 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-021-00566-3

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