Current situation of cannabis use in Japan: Based on data from the nationwide general population survey on drug use in Japan 2017

Abstract

This study aimed to review the current state and trends in cannabis use in Japan, using data from several national epidemiological surveys. The number of cannabis users in the general population was estimated approximately 1.3 million people. Cannabis use increased between 2015 and 2017. In 2017, the lifetime prevalence of cannabis use was greater than that of inhalants, and cannabis had become the most abused drug in Japan. The increase in cannabis users is thought influenced by increased access to illegal cultivation and positive thinking about cannabis use among many people, especially younger individuals.