Curious about how your neighborhood impacts your choices? A groundbreaking study from Oregon reveals a fascinating connection between where we live and our habits. The research, which analyzed data from over 60,000 Oregonians, suggests a link between the proximity of cannabis retail stores and both cannabis and alcohol consumption.
This study, spearheaded by Oregon State University scientist David Kerr, examined nine years of data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The study cleverly used participants' ZIP codes to determine their proximity to licensed cannabis retailers, without requiring individuals to disclose their shopping habits.
"Oregonians living near more cannabis retailers were more likely to use cannabis frequently," explains Kerr. "But a key finding was that they were less likely to engage in heavy drinking."
For clarity, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines heavy drinking as eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more for men.
Interestingly, the effects were most pronounced in two age groups: 21-24 and 65 and over. Kerr notes that the younger group's brains are still developing, making them more susceptible to the effects of cannabis. This age group is also the peak onset period for cannabis use disorder.
But here's where it gets controversial... Kerr suggests that communities need to consider policies that address how cannabis products are marketed to young adults, who often live in areas with easy retail access and may be more inclined to buy high-potency products.
At the other end of the spectrum, perceptions about the risks of regular cannabis use have decreased, especially among those with chronic diseases who may use it for medicinal purposes.
"It's a complicated picture," Kerr admits. "Cannabis is considered effective for certain conditions, poses less risk than opioids, and less drinking is better for your health than more drinking."
Kerr also points out that while people may not choose where they live based on cannabis retailers, increased access can certainly influence behavior.
Recreational cannabis sales in Oregon began in 2015. State law allows cities and counties to ban retail operations, but county bans only apply to unincorporated areas.
"Retail access to cannabis products can be regulated through an array of approaches," Kerr concludes. "Careful consideration should be given to policies that balance the goals of cannabis legalization against potential harms."
This research was supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health. The full findings are available in preprint form.
What do you think? Does this study change your perspective on cannabis legalization and its impact on communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
