People with psychotic disorders are the most vulnerable to cannabis adverse health outcomes: a study in WA State, USA

Abstract

Cannabis use has been shown to negatively impact the management and prognosis of psychotic disorders. Little is known about the broader health impacts of cannabis use in this population. This study compares cannabis-related negative health outcomes among individuals with a diagnosis of a psychotic disorder to those with other mental health (MH) diagnoses or no MH diagnosis. Data came from International Cannabis Policy Study (2020–2023). Respondents were 4,144 Washington State individuals aged 16–65, who consumed cannabis in the last 12 months. Three groups were compared for cannabis use negative health events: lifetime diagnoses of psychotic disorders, other MH and no MH diagnoses. Logistic regressions were used in the analysis. People with psychotic disorders were more likely to report adverse events from their cannabis use and to pursue medical attention than consumers with other MH or no MH diagnoses (p