Canadian cancer survivors' use of cannabis as a sleep aid

Abstract

This project is a cross-sectional exploration of cannabis as a sleep aid among Canadian cancer survivors. Participants were recruited via the Angus Reid Forum and completed a survey including the Insomnia Severity Index and questions about their sociodemographic information, medical history, and cannabis use for sleep. The first study explored the prevalence and patterns of cannabis use for sleep. Of participants (N=1464), 23.5% reported currently using cannabis for sleep. Current consumers (Mage=61.1, 50% women) received their cancer diagnosis 12.5 years prior. Benefits to sleep included relaxation, falling asleep faster, fewer nocturnal awakenings, and improved sleep quality. The second study examined factors associated with cannabis use as a sleep aid. Participants (N=940) were more likely to use cannabis for sleep if they identified as a gender other than men or women, were diagnosed with multiple medical conditions or sleep disorders, two psychological conditions, insomnia, bone, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, hematological, or an unlisted cancer, received hormone therapy only, partake in heavy drinking, or scored in the mild insomnia range. Given the prevalence and potential impact of cannabis on sleep, more research is needed to examine its efficacy and safety. The present findings will inform future trials by generating patient-oriented hypotheses and methodologies.