Experts have expressed concerns about new figures which show that the number of Americans who have diabetes and use cannabis has risen by more than 30%.
The research team say their findings are alarming because people with diabetes can be at greater risk of the “potential harms” linked to cannabis use.
Most notably, cannabis is linked to negative cardiovascular incidents, which is something those with diabetes are already susceptible to.
In addition, cannabis may complicate diabetes management, adversely affecting glycaemic control and self-management behaviours.
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The study estimates that 9% of people with diabetes used cannabis in the last month, with a 33.7% increase in prevalence between 2021 and 2022.
The research shows that those with diabetes who use cannabis may take other drugs and substances, with the study authors saying: “Concerningly, among individuals with diabetes who used cannabis, we found a higher prevalence of the use of other psychoactive substances.
“While we cannot determine if these substances were used concurrently, these results suggest there may be a population of adults with diabetes who engage in unsafe poly- substance use.
“Furthermore, in addition to cannabis, use of some substances, including tobacco and excess alcohol use, are established risk factors for cardiovascular disease and could impact glucose metabolism.”
Researchers from University of California San Diego School of Medicine say there could be several explanations for people with diabetes using cannabis.
One could be cannabis’ perceived therapeutic benefits, so people may take it to relieve insomnia and pain from neuropathy.
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A number of states in the U.S. have legalised cannabis, leading to greater access.
This may have driven more people with chronic conditions to try cannabis to alleviate symptoms.
The study authors say their findings should prompt healthcare workers to screen for cannabis use in patients with diabetes and provide more education about its effects on those with the condition.
Read the study in Diabetes Care.
