Cannabis Use Disorder on the Rise Among Older Veterans: A Call for Balanced Care

A recent study published in JAMA Network reveals that cannabis use among U.S. veterans aged 65 to 84 has reached levels comparable to tobacco use, with 10.3% reporting cannabis consumption in the past 30 days.  Notably, over one-third (36.3%) of these users meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder (CUD), indicating a significant public health concern within this population. 

JAMA Network is a collection of peer-reviewed medical journals published by the American Medical Association (AMA). It includes some of the most respected publications in clinical medicine, such as JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) and JAMA Network Open, which focuses on open-access research across a wide range of medical disciplines. Studies published within the network undergo rigorous review and are widely cited by health professionals, researchers, and policymakers.

The study, conducted between February 2020 and August 2023, involved 4,503 community-dwelling veterans receiving care through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).  Among those who used cannabis recently, 52.4% reported frequent use, defined as 20 or more days per month.  Smoking was the predominant method of consumption (72.4%), followed by edibles (36.9%).  

Pain management emerged as the primary reason for cannabis use, cited by 56.4% of users, followed by mental health concerns (18.4%) and sleep issues (16.0%).  

Risk factors associated with higher odds of CUD included younger age within the cohort (65–75 years), inhalation methods of consumption, presence of anxiety symptoms, functional impairments, and economic hardship.  Veterans residing in states with recreational cannabis legalization were more likely to use cannabis compared to those in non-legal states.  

These findings show the need for routine screening and education about cannabis use in older veterans.  While cannabis can offer therapeutic benefits, particularly for pain and mental health conditions, it's essential to balance these benefits with awareness of potential risks, especially in populations with complex medical histories. 

Healthcare providers are encouraged to engage in open dialogues with veteran patients regarding cannabis use, ensuring informed decisions that consider both the potential benefits and risks.  As cannabis becomes more accessible, tailored interventions and support systems are vital to address and mitigate the rise of CUD among older veterans. 

For veterans and healthcare providers seeking more information, the full study is available online at JAMANetwork.com.