Among 12 million Ontarians, those with a cannabis-related ER visit had a 3.7-fold increased risk of anxiety disorder diagnosis within three years, with young males at highest risk (5.7x).
Emergency physicians, psychiatrists, public health policymakers, and individuals who have experienced cannabis-related distress.
What the researchers found
Within 3 years of a cannabis ER visit, 12.3% were diagnosed with anxiety (ED/hospital) vs 1.2% general population (aHR 3.69). Including outpatient: 23.6% vs 5.6% (aHR 3.88). Young males: aHR 5.67. Young females: aHR 3.22.
Why it matters
Cannabis-related ER visits may identify individuals at very high risk for developing anxiety disorders, offering a clinical window for screening and intervention.
The numbers in context
12,099,144 individuals. 34,822 cannabis ER visits. 3-year anxiety: 12.3% vs 1.2%. aHR 3.69. Young males: aHR 5.67.
How the study worked
Population-based cohort using Ontario administrative data (2008-2019). 12,099,144 individuals without prior anxiety. 34,822 had cannabis ER visits. Cause-specific hazard models.
What this study cannot tell us
Cannot determine causation. ER visits represent the most severe reactions. Cannot measure use patterns or potency.
How to read the evidence
Massive population cohort (12 million) with appropriate hazard modeling. Cannot determine causation.
When this study was published
2024 publication using 2008-2019 data.
The bigger picture
Cannabis ER visits are increasing with legalization. If these visits represent high-risk moments, they offer opportunities for brief intervention that could prevent chronic anxiety.
Questions still open
- Would anxiety screening after cannabis ER visits reduce disorder development?
- Is the association driven by cannabis causing anxiety or shared vulnerabilities?
Common questions
Does cannabis cause anxiety disorders?
Why are young males at highest risk?
Read the original research
Development of an anxiety disorder following an emergency department visit due to cannabis use: a population-based cohort study.
EClinicalMedicine, 69, 102455
Citation
Myran, Daniel T; Harrison, Lyndsay D; Pugliese, Michael; Tanuseputro, Peter; Gaudreault, Adrienne; Fiedorowicz, Jess G; Solmi, Marco. (2024). Development of an anxiety disorder following an emergency department visit due to cannabis use: a population-based cohort study.. EClinicalMedicine, 69, 102455. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102455
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