In October 2018, Canada enacted the Cannabis Act (CAC), legalizing the non-medical use of cannabis. A recent study conducted in the Canadian province of Québec has found that the rate of cannabis-related disorders diagnosed among pregnant women increased by more than 20% after the enactment of the CAC. While rates for all other drug- and alcohol-related disorders remained stable, the rise in cannabis use disorder diagnoses during pregnancy warrants a robust public health response.
Background and Findings
- The study analyzed monthly rates of diagnosed cannabis-related disorders (CRDs) in pregnant women aged 15 to 49 years in Québec between January 2010 and July 2021.
- Before October 2018, the average number of CRD diagnoses per month was 14.5 per 100,000 pregnant women. After the Cannabis Act, this jumped to 23.5 per 100,000 pregnant women and has remained at that level.
- Cannabis use during pregnancy has been associated with risks such as preterm birth, neonatal intensive care unit admissions, and low birth weight.
- Universal screening for CRDs and ad-hoc counseling during pregnancy are crucial.
The study highlights the importance of monitoring cannabis use disorder during pregnancy and implementing effective public health strategies to address this issue.
