MIAMI – A major new peer-reviewed study by Leafwell gives a detailed first look at medical cannabis use among those under the age of 21 in the United States. The takeaways show that under-21 patients use medicinal cannabis for most of the same reasons as adults – with anxiety and PTSD (41%) and chronic pain (15%) topping the list.
Other key findings include:
- More young adults (18-20) reported depression than minors (under 18)
- Most pediatric patients had two or more medical conditions
- Cancer was a more common qualifying condition for minors than young adults
“This study shines a light on a traditionally under-researched group of young medical cannabis patients,” says Emily Fisher, CEO of Leafwell. “The findings reveal that many young people are using cannabis to manage conditions such as anxiety and chronic pain. By leveraging Leafwell’s extensive patient database, we aim to inform more tailored, evidence-based care for pediatric and young adult populations. Understanding this patient group and how cannabis is being used as a medicine is essential for developing safe and effective treatment protocols. This study represents a significant step forward in advancing our knowledge and ensuring that the unique needs of younger patients are met with thoughtful and precise care.”
“This study shows that it is crucial to understand the emotional, social, and psychological reasons why teens and young adults might turn to cannabis, especially as a way to cope with stress or mental health challenges.” says Dr. June Chin, Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell. “I advocate for having open, non-judgmental conversations with teens and young adults, and providing them with the guidance they need to make informed decisions about cannabis use. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of a balanced, evidence-based approach when considering medical cannabis for younger populations, while also addressing the root causes behind its use.”
The study looked at Leafwell’s data of 13,855 minor patients. Most were white, non-Hispanic (63.2%), followed by Hispanic (19.4%), and black, non-Hispanic (6.78%). The patients were majority male (57.2%) and lived in states where both medical and adult-use cannabis are legal (75.5%).
About Leafwell
Leafwell is an integrative cannabis clinic and a health technology platform that connects patients to healthcare providers in 34 states and the District of Columbia. Leafwell’s mission is to revolutionize access to cannabis and empower your wellness journey. Trusted by 1 million monthly users and over 3500 partner organizations, Leafwell is proud to serve a vast and diverse community seeking better health through cannabis, providing assistance for 100+ health conditions to ensure the most comprehensive care possible.
