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  4. Cannabis health survey on usage in women with spinal cord injury and knowledge among physicians: A cross-sectional study

Cannabis health survey on usage in women with spinal cord injury and knowledge among physicians: A cross-sectional study

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2023 · DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2038049 · Published: April 1, 2023

Spinal Cord InjuryMental HealthWomen's Health

Simple Explanation

This study investigates cannabis use among women with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and the knowledge of physicians regarding cannabis. It highlights the need for more research on cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding in this population. The research involved surveys of women with SCI and physicians at a rehabilitation center. The surveys focused on cannabis use patterns, perceived benefits and challenges, and physicians' knowledge of recreational and synthetic cannabinoids. The study found that some women with SCI use cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and physicians have limited knowledge about recreational cannabis products. This underscores the importance of further research to ensure safe and effective patient care.

Study Duration
August to October 2018
Participants
20 women with SCI, 15 physicians
Evidence Level
Cross-sectional study

Key Findings

  • 1
    Seven women with SCI reported cannabis use at the time of the survey, with spasticity and pain management being major benefits.
  • 2
    Some women used cannabis during pregnancy and/or breastfeeding for sleep or morning sickness relief.
  • 3
    Physicians reported limited knowledge of recreational cannabis products but greater comfort with synthetic cannabinoids.

Research Summary

This cross-sectional study examined cannabis use among women with SCI and physician knowledge. Surveys were conducted with women with SCI and physicians at a Canadian rehabilitation center to assess cannabis use patterns and perceptions, as well as physician knowledge of recreational and synthetic cannabinoids. The results indicated that some women with SCI use cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding, primarily for managing spasticity, pain, and morning sickness. However, physicians reported limited knowledge about recreational cannabis products, which highlights a need for increased education and research. The study emphasizes the importance of further investigating the safety and efficacy of cannabis use in women with SCI, particularly during the reproductive period, to improve patient care and intergenerational health outcomes. Further research on compound composition and product quality is needed.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Clinicians should closely monitor cannabis use in women with SCI, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Further Research

More research is needed on the safety and efficacy of cannabis use in women with SCI and its impacts on offspring.

Physician Education

Increased education for physicians is necessary regarding recreational cannabis products and their effects.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Small sample size
  • 2
    High number of non-responders among women with SCI
  • 3
    Study limited to Vancouver, Canada

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