Nicotine and cannabis use patterns among a diverse adolescent population.

Stephanie Colins, MPH(c), Mikaela Rojas, MPH(c), Maria Rivera-Guevara, MPH, Eric Shanazari, MPH, Myriam Forster, Ph.D., MPH.
 

Background: Adolescent use of nicotine and cannabis, including dual use, poses significant public health concerns related to respiratory health, addiction, and the evolving product market.

 

Methods:  This study examined the association between developmental assets (DAs)—strengths and supports in personal, social, family, school, and community domains—and nicotine, cannabis, and dual product use in high school students.

 

Results: Survey data from 1,973 diverse adolescents (mean age=16, 52% female, 30% Hispanic) were analyzed using multinomial regression models, adjusting for demographics. Findings revealed higher family DA scores reduced the likelihood of nicotine use (RRR=0.96), while higher social competency scores lowered the risk of cannabis use (RRR=0.92). Personal (RRR=0.90) and family (RRR=0.96) DA scores were linked to decreased dual use.

 

Conclusion:  Results highlight the protective role of DAs in reducing substance use risks, underscoring the need for prevention strategies that strengthen these developmental supports.