Ex-smokers who use cannabis are more prone to relapse, and existing smokers who smoke cannabis are not as likely to quit.
Although using cigarettes continues to be on the decrease, cannabis use is increasing and, disproportionately, Cannabis smokers also use cigarettes. A scientific study by Columbia University and the City University of New York show that cannabis smoking was linked to a higher initiation of smoking regular cigarettes among non-cigarette users. In addition, they discovered adults who are cigarette smokers and also smoke cannabis are not as likely to give up smoking cigarettes compared to individuals who do not smoke cannabis. Ex-smokers who smoke cannabis are also more prone to relapse to smoking cigarettes. Results are posted on the internet in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry.
So far, not much was understood about the connection between cannabis use and quitting smoking or relapse after a while in the overall adult populace.
The comparisons were determined by details and replies from 34,639 people to queries regarding cannabis use together with smoking status.
The research implies that smoking cannabis is linked to a greater likelihood of starting smoking, relapse, and continuation.
Previous analysis indicated that using cannabis by cigarette smokers had grown significantly in the last two decades to the level where cigarette smokers are over 5 times more likely than non-smokers to smoke cannabis every day.
The studies have been widely accepted. Building an improved comprehension of the connection between cannabis and cigarette smoking transitions is important and timely since smoking cigarettes is still the foremost avoidable reason for early loss of life and disease, and Cannabis smoking is increasing in the U.S as well as Europe.
The findings also suggest that interventions need to address both cigarette and cannabis use to effectively reduce smoking rates and prevent relapse. The research team recommends that healthcare providers should screen for both cigarette and cannabis use, and provide tailored interventions to help smokers quit both substances.
Urine drug tests for both cannabis and cotinine are provide a simple method of screening for the use of either drug.
Additionally, public health campaigns should raise awareness of the risks associated with smoking cannabis, particularly in relation to cigarette smoking.
Overall, the study highlights the need for further research into the relationship between cannabis and cigarette smoking, and the impact of this on public health. It also underscores the importance of addressing substance use in a comprehensive manner, rather than focusing on a single substance in isolation. With smoking continuing to be a major public health concern, it is essential that we develop effective strategies to reduce its prevalence and prevent relapse among ex-smokers.
Photo Credit: “Lighting Joint” (CC BY 2.0) by halseike
Zoom Testing is a leading UK drug testing company and a supplier of Drug Test Kits.
This post was originally published in 2018 and has been updated since.
