An exploratory study of Cannabis users receiving treatment in adolescent services and siblings of cannabis users who never used cannabis
Abstract
Background: A recent report from EMCDDA suggests that drug use has become more common among the general population aged 15-64 years in Ireland over recent years. The most recent survey in 2014-15 confirms that cannabis remains the most commonly used illicit drug in Ireland, with almost a fifth (18%) of young adults (15-34 years) reporting use in the last year. A growing body of evidence suggests that adolescent cannabis users exhibit impairments in cognitive function. However, It is still not clear what the effects of cannabis have on cognitive impairment and neuropsychological functioning. Few studies have included siblings as matched controls
Method: A total of two hundred participants will be recruited for this study. The study will employ match controls. One hundred cannabis users and one hundred siblings of cannabis users will be recruited.This study includes three international partner sites (Bulgaria, Pakistan and Vigina).
Results: Difference in a sample of cannabis users vs non-users may be very informative about important neurocognitive function based on substance use characteristics (e.g. length of time using, periods of abstinence vs never used).
Conclusions: Given ongoing neuromaturation during youth, adolescents may be more vulnerable to potential consequences of Cannabis use.