New research from Binghamton University highlights a significant connection between pain and cannabis use in young adults. The study reveals that both chronic and acute pain can influence substance use choices, including cannabis and alcohol-cannabis co-use. As cannabis legalization spreads and societal views shift, these findings present a new perspective that could impact how healthcare providers approach treatment and prevention strategies.
Contrary to the common belief that young adults are generally pain-free, this research shows that many experience considerable pain. The studies, led by postdoctoral fellow Callon Williams and co-authored by professors at Binghamton University, focus on emerging adults aged 18 to 25. Two studies were published: one in Behavioral Medicine and the other in the journal Alcohol, utilizing data from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study.
Williams pointed out that emerging adults are often considered a healthy demographic, yet pain levels can significantly influence their cannabis use. The PATH study included data from 45,971 participants across the United States from 2013 to 2019. This period saw cannabis legalization for medicinal and recreational purposes in several states, expanding the definition of cannabis use to include smoking, vaping, and hash oils.
The misconception that pain is primarily an issue for older adults is challenged by this research, which finds that many younger individuals also experience significant pain. Co-author Emily L. Zale noted that rates of chronic pain in younger populations are comparable to those of older adults globally. This ongoing prevalence of pain often goes unnoticed due to the expectation that young people are healthy.
Using a 10-point pain rating scale, the studies focused on participants experiencing moderate to severe pain, defined as a score of 4 or higher. Findings showed that those with moderate to severe pain were 1.4 times more likely to begin using cannabis over a four-year span compared to individuals with little or no pain. They also tended to start using cannabis earlier in that timeframe.
Overall, these studies shed light on the important role that pain plays in influencing cannabis use among young adults, suggesting a need for more awareness in both clinical settings and broader societal discussions.
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