Study Examines Cannabis Use Patterns by Gender Identity

Gender Identity and Cannabis Use: Key Insights from a New Study

A recent study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research provides a detailed look at how cannabis use patterns vary across gender identities. Analyzing data from 281,533 participants aged 16–65—including 2,445 transgender individuals and 783 gender-diverse individuals—the research reveals both similarities and significant differences in consumption, addiction, and medical use.

Daily Consumption: More Alike Than Different

Daily cannabis consumption rates were similar across all gender groups, with figures clustering around 12–14%. This suggests that the frequency of daily use is not strongly tied to gender identity in this dataset.

• 14% of cisgender men
• 12% of transgender men
• 12% of gender-diverse individuals
• 12% of cisgender women
• 12% of transgender women

Addiction and Perceived Effects

When it comes to self-reported addiction, the picture is more complex. Approximately 12% of cisgender men, transgender men, and transgender women reported high addiction to cannabis.

Transgender women (6%) and gender-diverse individuals (6%) were significantly less likely to report being "very addicted" compared to cisgender men.

In terms of positive personal effects, gender-diverse individuals reported greater benefits from cannabis use compared to cisgender men. No differences were found among cisgender men, cisgender women, transgender men, and transgender women.

Social Comfort and Medical Use

Social comfort with cannabis consumption varied by gender. Cisgender women reported lower comfort using cannabis in social settings compared to cisgender men. No differences were found among cisgender men, transgender men, and transgender women.

Perhaps the most striking difference emerged in medical cannabis use. Rates of cannabis use for medical purposes were highest among gender-diverse individuals, with over half of transgender men and women also reporting medical use.

• Gender-diverse individuals: 64%
• Transgender men: 53%
• Transgender women: 51%
• Cisgender women: 49%
• Individuals with unstated identities: 48%
• Cisgender men: 45%

Implications for Healthcare and Public Policy

The researchers suggest these findings may help inform patient-healthcare provider discussions and public health initiatives aimed at preventing cannabis use disorder in specific populations. Understanding these nuanced patterns could lead to more targeted education and support.