Male cannabis-users needed for study

Male cannabis-users are needed for a University of Queensland study examining the drug’s continued popularity among Australians.

Psychiatry Department researchers are seeking men who have used cannabis during the last month, have no history of psychiatric treatment, live within 20kms of the CBD and are aged over 18.

Researcher Bob Green said his study would compare the cannabis experiences of people with and without psychiatric problems.

Despite the possibility of arrest and health problems, recent Australian household surveys report that more than 30 percent of those surveyed have tried cannabis.

“In a 2001 survey, 12.9 percent of people said they had used cannabis in the past 12 months, with use being much higher among those aged 14–29 years,” Mr Green said.

“Although cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in Australia, there has been relatively little research into the factors contributing to its continued use. My research will better help understand cannabis use from the perspective of cannabis users.

“The research aims to develop better methods to understand cannabis use, especially among people who experience problems with its use.”

He said participation consisted of a single, confidential interview in which men would be asked about the effects of cannabis and reasons for use.

If you would like more information, please contact Mr Green on telephone (07) 3221 2511 or by email Further details and a summary of findings from a previous study are also available