Demographic correlates of high-concentration cannabis use in Colorado

Abstract

Abstract Background As cannabis legalization expands, high-concentration cannabis products (such as wax, dabs, and THC oils) are increasingly available. Despite concerns over their heightened risks, limited research has examined who uses high-concentration cannabis and how these individuals differ from other cannabis users. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 564 adults in Colorado, the first U.S. state to legalize recreational cannabis. Participants were categorized into three groups: non-current users, current traditional cannabis users (e.g., flower), and current high-concentration cannabis users (defined as using concentrates with > 50% THC in the past 30 days). Demographic and psychosocial variables were compared across groups using chi-square tests and ANOVA. Results High-concentration cannabis users were significantly younger than both non-current users and current traditional cannabis users. Compared with both groups, high-concentration cannabis users were also more likely to identify as non-heterosexual. Compared with non-current users, both current traditional cannabis users and current high-concentration cannabis users were more likely to identify as male and reside in urban areas. Conclusions High-concentration cannabis users differed from current traditional cannabis users by younger age and a higher prevalence of non-heterosexual identity, whereas male gender and geographic distribution were associated with cannabis use more broadly. These findings may help inform prevention and education efforts targeting populations at greater risk of high-concentration cannabis use.