This article originally appeared at https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-medication/cannabis/research-data/canadian-cannabis-survey-2022-summary.html
Introduction
The Cannabis Act came into force on October 17, 2018 and provides legal access to cannabis and controls and regulates its production, distribution and sale. To evaluate the impact of the Cannabis Act, data are required to better understand how Canadians view and use cannabis. These data will also support development of policy and program initiatives, including public education and awareness activities.
Health Canada developed and implemented the Canadian Cannabis Survey (CCS) to obtain detailed information about the habits of people who use cannabis and behaviours relative to cannabis use.
The CCS started in 2017 and is conducted annually. It examines aspects of patterns of use, such as the quantities of cannabis consumed and the use of cannabis for medical purposes; the cannabis market, such as sources of cannabis and pricing; and issues of public safety, such as impaired driving. Survey content is reviewed annually and modified to address any identified gaps in the data.
The 2022 CCS included additional questions related to such issues as:
- Accidental consumption of cannabis products by individuals and pets in the household
- Exposure to advertisements or promotions of cannabis
- Changes in cannabis use over the past 12 months in the context of the ongoing Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic
Results by theme
Results from the 2022 survey are presented by theme. Comparisons to the 2021 CCS data were made where applicable. Note that some questions were updated between 2021 and 2022 cycles.
For an analysis of key CCS findings over the past 5 years (2018-2022), visit the Cannabis Data Blog: Data over the past 5 years
All reported increases and decreases in the text below are statistically significant changes (meaning that they are not likely to have occurred by chance alone). To improve readability, the words “statistically significant” will not be repeated. Similarly, at times the text will state that the proportion is “unchanged” or not different between groups, even though the numbers are not identical. This occurs when the difference between numbers is not statistically significant.
Definitions
- Cannabis use includes using cannabis in its dry form or when mixed or processed into another product, such as an edible, a concentrate, including hashish, a liquid, or other product.
- Cannabis use for non-medical purposes is defined as use for a range of non-medical reasons (such as, socially for enjoyment, pleasure, amusement or for spiritual, lifestyle and other non-medical reasons).
- Cannabis use for medical purposes is defined as use to treat a disease/disorder or to improve symptoms associated with a disease/disorder.
Detailed results tables have been published on the Library and Archives website. A summary of the key results by theme is provided below.
In this section
- Knowledge, attitudes and opinions
- Cannabis use and products used
- Sources and purchasing
- Driving and cannabis
- Cannabis for medical purposes
- Featured topic
Knowledge, attitudes and opinions
Canadians were asked questions about their knowledge and opinions related to cannabis. Topics included:
- Knowledge/beliefs about harms related to cannabis
- Access to trustworthy information
- Exposure to health warning messages and public health messaging
- Exposure to advertisements or promotions of cannabis
- Accidental consumption of cannabis products in the home
- Social acceptability of cannabis and other substance use
- Perceived risk of using cannabis and other substances
- Opinions on whether cannabis use can be habit forming
Knowledge/beliefs about harms related to cannabis
Canadians were asked whether they know or believe that cannabis smoke can be harmful, whether daily or almost daily cannabis use can increase the risk of mental health problems, and whether teenagers are at greater risk of harm from cannabis use than adults (Figure 1). For all of these harms, the majority of Canadians reported they believe these risks to be true.
Access to trustworthy information
Canadians were asked if they felt they had access to enough trustworthy information about the health risks of cannabis use to make informed decisions. Most people (72%) reported somewhat or strongly agreeing that they had enough trustworthy information, unchanged from 2021 (73%). This was more common among those who used cannabis in the past 12 months (88%) than among those who had not used cannabis (66%).
Exposure to health warning messages and consumer information sheet
Canadians were asked if they had seen the health warning messages on cannabis products/packages or on Health Canada’s website. Overall, 29% reported they had seen the warnings and a further 19% reported they were not sure, both unchanged from 2021. Among those who used cannabis in the past 12 months, 62% reported having seen the warnings, unchanged from 2021. Of those who had seen the warnings, over half (55%) reported that this had increased their knowledge of the harms related to cannabis use at least somewhat, unchanged from 2021. Of those who had not seen the warnings, 70% felt that they sufficiently knew the harms related to cannabis at least somewhat, a decrease from 2021 (72%).
Canadians were also asked if they had seen the cannabis consumer information sheet either with their purchase, displayed at a retailer, or on the Health Canada website. Overall, 9% reported seeing the cannabis consumer information sheet at one or more locations, a decrease from 2021 (10%). A further 14% were unsure if they had seen the sheet, unchanged from 2021. Among those who used cannabis in the past 12 months, under a quarter (18%) reported having seen the information sheet. Of those who had seen the information sheet, the majority (65%) reported the sheet increased their knowledge of the harms related to cannabis use at least somewhat.
Exposure to education campaigns, public health or safety messages
Canadians were asked if they had seen or heard education campaigns, public health or safety messages about cannabis in various locations in the past 12 months, and could select more than one location if they had seen or heard these messages in multiple locations. Figure 2 shows the most common locations. With the exception of television or radio, those who used cannabis in the past 12 months were more likely to report having seen the messages in these locations than those who had not used cannabis. There was an increase in the number of Canadians who reported that they did not recall seeing any education campaigns or public health messages (from 39% in 2021 to 48% in 2022).
Of those who saw or heard these messages, 69% reported that the information was credible or believable, a decrease from 2021 (77%).
Exposure to cannabis advertisements or promotions
New in the 2022 cycle, Canadians were asked if they had noticed/seen cannabis being advertised or promoted in various locations over the past 12 months. People could select more than one location if they had noticed these advertisements or promotions in multiple locations. As shown in Figure 3, just over half had not noticed advertisements (51%) and, where seen, most were outside of stores that sell cannabis.
Accidental consumption cannabis in the home
New in 2022, Canadians were asked if anyone or any pets in their household had accidentally consumed cannabis (e.g., eating/drinking something without knowing it contained cannabis). One percent (1%) reported that accidental consumption had occurred. Of those who reported accidental consumption in the home, 48% said it involved a pet, 23% involved an adult, 22% involved themselves, and 13% involved a teenager (multiple responses were allowed). Accidental consumption among children under 13 years old was not reportable due to small counts that did not allow for an estimate.
Exposure to second-hand smoke or vapour
Canadians were asked about locations of exposure to second-hand cannabis smoke or vapour in the past 30 days. The most common location was in a public place (44%), an increase from 33% in 2021. Overall, 20% of Canadians reported exposure to second-hand smoke in the home, an increase from 17% in 2021, and 6% in a car, an increase from 5% in 2021. Exposure at a workplace or school was reported by 7% overall, an increase from 5% in 2021. Exposure in all locations was more common among people who used cannabis in the past 12 months than among people who did not.
Social acceptability
Canadians were asked about the social acceptability of using various substances including cannabis occasionally and regularly. Of the proposed substances (alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarettes and cannabis), the most socially acceptable substance to use, whether occasionally or regularly, was alcohol, followed by cannabis and then tobacco (Figure 4). Social acceptability of the occasional use of e-cigarettes and eating or vaping cannabis increased slightly from 2021 to 2022, but that of smoking cannabis remained unchanged.
Social acceptability of occasional or regular use of alcohol, tobacco and cannabis was higher among people who indicated using cannabis in the past 12 months compared to those who did not report cannabis use. This pattern was also seen in 2021.
Perceived risks of using various substances
Canadians were asked how much they thought a person risked harming themselves by using various substances once in a while and on a regular basis. Perceived risk was determined using a 4-point Likert scale, which had the following categories: no risk, slight risk, moderate risk, great risk and “don’t know”.
In general, the majority of people felt that occasional use of alcohol or cannabis had no risk or slight risk. In comparison, smoking tobacco and using an e-cigarette with nicotine once in a while were seen as having moderate or great risk by the majority of people.
When asked about the use of these substances on a regular basis, the majority of people perceived either a moderate or great risk for smoking tobacco (95%), using an e-cigarette with nicotine (87%), drinking alcohol (77%), vaping cannabis (75%), smoking cannabis (74%), and eating cannabis (64%). Compared to 2021, perception of moderate or great risk increased for regular alcohol use (from 75%) and decreased for regular use of e-cigarettes and eating cannabis (from 89% and 66%, respectively). For smoking tobacco, smoking cannabis, and vaping cannabis, there was no change from 2021.
Among those who used cannabis in the past 12 months, a smaller percentage perceived moderate or great risk from regular use of the aforementioned substances, compared to those who had not used cannabis, with the exception of smoking tobacco on a regular basis. The difference in the percentage perceiving moderate or great risk was smaller for the regular use of alcohol, tobacco, and e-cigarettes with nicotine compared to smoking, eating or vapourizing cannabis (Figure 5).
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Canadians were asked whether or not they agreed if it is okay to use cannabis when pregnant or breastfeeding. Overall, the majority (86%) of Canadians did not agree, unchanged from 2021. Among those who used cannabis in the past 12 months, 82% did not agree, compared to 88% of those who did not use cannabis (both unchanged from 2021).
Females aged 16 to 50 who had given birth in the past 5 years were asked about cannabis use during their last pregnancy. Overall, 96% did not use cannabis once they learned they were pregnant with their last child. Among those who breastfed, 94% did not use cannabis while breastfeeding their last child. Both were unchanged from 2021.
Opinions on cannabis use and impairment
Canadians were asked about their opinions on cannabis use and impairment. Overall, 42% of people reported that consuming cannabis products with lower levels of THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) did not lead to greater impairment, while 19% thought it did, and 39% were not sure, all unchanged from 2021. Among people who reported using cannabis in the past 12 months, the majority (70%) reported products with lower levels of THC did not lead to greater impairment, while 9% thought it did and 21% were not sure, all unchanged from 2021.
Overall, 52% of people reported it could take up to 4 hours to feel the full effects of eating or drinking cannabis, while 10% did not, and 38% were not sure (all unchanged from 2021). Among people who reported using cannabis in the past 12 months, the majority (74%) reported it could take up to 4 hours, while 13% did not, and 13% were not sure, all unchanged from 2020.
Overall, 37% of people reported that the effects of inhaling cannabis were not longer-lasting than eating/drinking cannabis products, while 10% reported that they were, and 53% were not sure, all unchanged from 2021. Among people who reported using cannabis in the past 12 months, only 8% (unchanged from 2021) thought the effects of inhaling cannabis were longer-lasting than eating/drinking cannabis products, while the majority (68%, a decrease from 72% in 2021) did not, and 25% (an increase from 21% in 2021) were not sure.
Opinions on whether cannabis use can be habit forming
Overall, 89% of people thought that using cannabis could be habit forming, unchanged from 2021. The majority of people who reported using cannabis in the past 12 months (91%) and those who did not use cannabis (89%) thought cannabis could be habit forming (unchanged from 2021).
Cannabis use and products used
Canadians who reported using cannabis for non-medical purposes were asked detailed questions about their use of cannabis. Topics included:
- Age of initiation of cannabis use
- Methods of consumption
- Types of cannabis products used and frequency
- Typical THC to CBD (cannabidiol) ratio of products
- Typical use in terms of number of hours and amount used per day
- Where cannabis is stored inside the home
Cannabis use
Canadians were asked about their cannabis use within the past 12 months. Twenty-seven percent (27%) of people 16 years of age and older reported having used cannabis in the past 12 months, an increase from 25% in the previous cycle. Provincial/territorial estimates ranged from 18% to 41%. Note that due to the data collection methodology, the CCS may provide general population prevalence estimates for cannabis use that are higher than other Canadian surveys.
Past 12-month use in Canadians of various demographic groups
As in previous years, past 12-month cannabis use was highest among 20-24 year olds (50%), followed by 16-19 year olds (37%) and those 25 years and older (25%). However, there was no change in past 12-month cannabis use among the 2 younger age groups relative to 2021, while use among those 25 and older increase from 22% in 2021 to 25% in 2022.
Males (30%) reported a higher percentage of cannabis use in the past year than females (25%). Reported past 12-month cannabis use increased between 2021 and 2022 among females, but was unchanged among males (Figure 6).
The proportion of people reporting cannabis use in the past 12 months was higher among people who identified as bisexual (61%), another sexuality (55%), or lesbian/gay (39%), all unchanged from 2021, than among people who identified as heterosexual (25%), an increase from 24% in 2021.
The proportion of people using cannabis in the past 12 months was 31% among people who were born in Canada, compared to people who were not born in Canada (16%). These same patterns were also seen in 2021.
People who reported “going to school” as their main activity in the past week reported higher rates of past 12-month cannabis use (34%) compared to those who selected an activity other than “going to school” (27%). People who reported working at a job or business in the past week, or have a job or business from which they were on vacation, reported higher rates of past 12-month cannabis use, (31%) compared to those who did not work at a job or business (22%). This is consistent with the pattern seen in 2021.
Those who reported having less than high school or a high school diploma as their highest level of education reported higher rates of past 12-month cannabis use (29%), compared to those with a post-graduate degree/diploma (20%). This is similar to the pattern seen in 2021.
Canadians were asked about their physical and mental health using a 5-point Likert scale, which had the following categories: excellent, very good, good, fair, and poor. Past 12-month cannabis use was highest among people who reported good, fair, and poor physical health (31%, 32%, and 28%, respectively), and lowest among those reporting excellent (22%) and very good (26%) physical health. For self-reported mental health the percentage reporting past 12-month cannabis use increases as mental health ratings decrease: excellent (17%), very good (23%), good (35%), fair (43%), and poor (51%). This was similar to the pattern seen in 2021.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cannabis use
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked if their cannabis use had changed from the previous year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Fifty-three percent (53%) reported using the same amount of cannabis, while 24% reported an increase in use and 23% reported a decrease. Change in cannabis use due to COVID-19 seemed to primarily affect younger age groups. The majority (57%) of those 25 years or older reported using the same amount of cannabis. Less than a quarter (21%) of people 25 years and older reported using more cannabis due to COVID-19, compared to 40% of those aged 16 to 19 years and 36% aged 20 to 24 years. A similar pattern was seen in the previous cycle.
The 5 most common reasons for an increase in cannabis use were stress (59%), anxiety (55%), boredom (51%), loneliness (33%), and lack of a regular schedule (31%).
Age of initiation
People who reported ever using cannabis were asked about the age at which they first tried or started using cannabis. The average age of starting cannabis use was 20.5 years, unchanged from 20.4 years in 2021. Females were older than males when they first tried cannabis (21.2 and 19.9 years, respectively). Average age of initiation is highly dependent on the age range of the Canadians in a survey, as well as the distribution of Canadians within predetermined age groups. For the CCS, the age of initiation is higher among the largest age group of adults age 25 and older (21.1 years) compared to 16 to 19 year olds (15.9 years) and 20 to 24 year olds (17.4 years), resulting in a higher average age of initiation overall.
Provincial/territorial estimates of average age of initiating cannabis use ranged from 18.5 years to 21.3 years.
Frequency of cannabis use
Canadians who reported using cannabis over the past 12 months were asked how frequently they used it. Approximately half (52%) reported using cannabis 3 days per month or less, and 18% reported daily cannabis use (Figure 7). Generally, frequency of cannabis use reported in 2022 was unchanged from 2021, with the exception of those who reported using 2 to 3 days per month, which decreased from 14% to 12%.
Overall, a higher percentage of 16 to 19 year olds (40%) reported using cannabis less than monthly compared to 20 to 24-year-olds (30%). A greater percentage of males (29%) reported daily or almost daily (i.e., 5-6 days per week) use compared to females (21%), who were more likely to report using less than 1 day per month (38%) compared to males (31%). The distribution of daily or almost daily use by sex and age group is summarized in Figure 8. Provincial/territorial estimates for daily or almost daily use ranged from 23% to 36% and estimates of less than 1 day per month ranged from 25% to 41%.
Overall, 19% of Canadians age 16 years and older reported using cannabis in the past 30 days (an increase from 17% in 2021). When asked how many days they used cannabis within the past 30 days, the average number of days was 14.2 (unchanged from 2021). On a typical day when these individuals used cannabis, the majority reported using cannabis once (53%); the next most common response selected was twice (20%), followed by 5 or more times (12%) – all unchanged from 2021.
Number of hours “stoned” or “high” on a typical use day
People who reported using cannabis in the past 30 days were asked about the number of hours they would spend “stoned” or “high” on a typical day when they used cannabis. Thirty-five percent (35%) reported they would be “stoned” or “high” for 1 or 2 hours, followed by those reporting 3 or 4 hours (33%), less than 1 hour (15%), 5 or 6 hours (9%) [all unchanged from 2021], and 7 or more hours (7%, an increase from 5% in 2021).
Frequency of cannabis use at or before work
The majority of people who reported using cannabis in the past 12 months also reported that they did not consume at work, or within 2 hours before work (66%, unchanged from 2021). A further 12% (a decrease from 14% in 2021) reported they had not been employed in the past 12 months. Fourteen percent (14%, an increase from 11% in 2021) reported using cannabis at or before work rarely (less than once a month), and 5% reported doing so weekly or more often (both unchanged from 2021). Two percent (2%) reported they missed any work in a typical month due to their cannabis use, unchanged from 2021.
Methods of consumption
People who had reported using cannabis in the past 12 months were asked about their methods of consumption, and could choose more than one method. Among this group, smoking (70%) was the most common, a decrease from 2021 (74%). Other methods of consumption in frequency reported were: 52% eating it in food (unchanged from 2021); 31% vapourizing using a vape pen or e-cigarette (an increase from 28% in 2021), 18% ingesting cannabis oil (a decrease from 22% in 2021); 16% drinking it (unchanged from 2021); 10% vapourizing using a vapourizer (unchanged from 2021); 7% applying to skin (a decrease from 9% in 2021); and 6% dabbing (unchanged from 2021).
When examining methods of consumption by provinces and territories, the most common method of consumption in all regions was smoking (rates ranged from 59% to 85%). This was followed by eating it in food (rates ranged from 28% to 60%) and vapourizing using a vape pen (rates ranged from 15% to 45%).
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months by way of a vapourizer and/or vape pen were asked what cannabis product was used when vapourizing cannabis, and the type of device used. The most common cannabis product used was liquid cannabis oil/extract (74%, an increase from 68% in 2021), followed by dried flower/leaf (49%, a decrease from 54% in 2021), and solid cannabis extracts (21%, unchanged from 2021). The majority responded that they use a non-disposable vaping device (68%), followed by 21% who used a disposable vaping device, and 11% who used both disposable and non-disposable devices (all unchanged from 2021).
Types of cannabis products used and frequency
Canadians who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked about the types of cannabis products they had used in the past 12 months. People could select more than one product. The 6 most common products used in 2022 are summarized in Figure 9. Canadians were also asked about the frequency at which they used these cannabis products. The most commonly reported frequency for 5 of these products was less than 1 day a month. For dried flower/leaf the most common frequency was daily or almost daily (31%).
A higher percentage of males reported using dried flower/leaf (71%), hash (22%), and concentrates/extracts (14%), compared to females (58%, 13%, and 10%, respectively). A higher percentage of females reported using edible cannabis (57%), beverages (22%), and topicals (12%) when compared to males (49%, 16%, and 5%, respectively). The percentage reporting use of vape pens/cartridges and cannabis oil for oral use was the same for both males and females (approximately 33% and 22%, respectively).
In all provinces and the territories, the most common product used was dried flower/leaf, ranging from 60% to 72%. Edible cannabis was the second most commonly reported product (estimates ranged from 25% to 63%).
Home growing of cannabis and preparation of cannabis edibles/drinks
Canadians were asked if anyone had grown cannabis plants in or around their home in the past 12 months. Overall, 6% of Canadians and 14% of those who had used cannabis in the past 12 months reported that cannabis plants had been grown in or around their home, both unchanged from 2021. New in 2022, we asked whether the person who was growing cannabis was authorized by Health Canada to grow for medical purposes for themselves or for another person. Twenty percent (20%) indicated that the person growing did have an authorization. Among those who reported cannabis plants currently grown in or around their residence, the average number of plants was 3.5, unchanged from 2021. We also asked about the number of plants that had been grown inside and outside the home in the past 12 months. The average number of plants grown outside was 3.1, and the number grown inside was 3.9, both unchanged from 2021.
Canadians were asked if anyone had prepared cannabis edibles or beverages in or around their home in the past 12 months. Overall, 7% reported preparation of cannabis edibles or beverages in their home, unchanged from 2021. Among those who had used cannabis in the past 12 months, 18% reported preparation of cannabis edibles or beverages in their home, a decrease from 2021 (22%).
Relative levels of THC and CBD in cannabis products
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked about the relative levels of THC and CBD in the cannabis products they typically use. Thirty-one percent (31%) indicated higher THC and lower CBD, 13% indicated higher CBD and lower THC, 12% selected equal levels of THC and CBD, 8% selected THC only, 2% selected CBD only, and 16% said they typically used a mix of these products (all unchanged from 2021). Seventeen percent (17%) indicated they did not know the relative levels of THC and CBD (a decrease from 20% in 2021).
Average amount used on a typical use day
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked about the average amount consumed on a typical day when they used cannabis. Of those who consumed dried flower/leaf, the average amount used was 1.3 grams (unchanged from 2021). Those who used edible cannabis consumed approximately 1.2 servings (unchanged from 2021). The average amount of cannabis oil for oral use consumed was 0.9 millilitres (unchanged from 2021). Of those who used each of the following products, the average amount consumed was 0.5 grams of hashish/kief; 0.1 vape pen cartridges; approximately 362 millilitres of cannabis beverage; and 0.3 grams of cannabis concentrate/extract (all unchanged from 2021).
Cannabis use with other substances
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked how often they combined their cannabis use with other substances, by mixing or consuming at the same time. People could select more than one substance. As in 2021, alcohol was the substance most commonly used in combination with cannabis, followed by tobacco (Figure 10). The majority of Canadians who used cannabis in the past 12 months never combined cannabis with illegal opioids (99%), prescription stimulants (95%), prescription opioids (95%), prescription sedatives (95%), illegal stimulants (96%), or illegal hallucinogens/dissociatives (90%).
Effects of cannabis use
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked about the effects of their cannabis use on various aspects of their lives (Figure 11). In general, people report their cannabis use is more beneficial than harmful across all categories. The percentage reporting somewhat to very harmful effects was 10% or less across all categories, except for physical health. This response pattern was unchanged from 2021.
Professional help for cannabis use
Most people (96%) who had used cannabis more than once in their lifetime reported they never felt they needed professional help (such as treatment or counselling) for their cannabis use, unchanged from 2021. Only 3% reported ever having received professional help, unchanged from 2021.
Where cannabis is stored inside the home
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked about where they store cannabis inside the home. Among those who currently had cannabis stored at home, the most common storage locations included unlocked cabinets or drawers (36%); childproof containers (25%); locked containers (19%); and open shelves or tables (17%) [all unchanged from 2021].
Sources and purchasing
Canadians who reported using cannabis for non-medical purposes were asked detailed questions about where they obtained their cannabis from, and their purchasing behaviour. Topics included:
- Sources used to obtain cannabis
- Average amount spent each month
- Type and frequency of cannabis products purchased or received
- Average price per unit of purchases
- Proportion of people who receive cannabis products for free
Sources used to obtain cannabis
People who reported using cannabis in the past 12 months were asked where they usually obtained the cannabis from. Sixty-one percent (61%) reported they had made a purchase from a legal storefront (an increase from 53% in 2021). In contrast, 2% reported usually obtaining cannabis from an illegal website (unchanged from 2021); only 1% reported usually obtaining cannabis from an illegal storefront (unchanged from 2021); and 1% reported usually obtaining cannabis from a dealer (a decrease from 2% in 2021). Figure 12 displays the sources used to obtain cannabis.
Those who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked how often they purchased any cannabis from legal/licensed sources and from illegal/unlicensed sources (Figure 13). Forty-eight percent (48%) reported they always obtain cannabis from a legal/licensed source (an increase from 43% in 2021). Similarly, 67% reported they never obtain cannabis from an illegal/unlicensed source (an increase from 63% in 2021).
Canadians who used cannabis in the past 12 months and who obtained cannabis from a legal/licensed source, were asked to identify all sources used. People could select more than one source. Responses included using a regulated/authorized storefront (87%, an increase from 81% in 2021), a regulated/authorized online retailer (20%, a decrease from 28% in 2021), and growing at home (5%, unchanged from 2021). Nineteen percent (19%) [unchanged from 2021] reported their source came from someone sharing, and of those, 12% paid the person who shared with them (a decrease from 19% in 2021). When asked about changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 74% indicated that there was no change in access to legal/licensed cannabis (unchanged from 2021).
Canadians who used cannabis in the past 12 months and who obtained cannabis from an illegal/unlicensed source were also asked to identify all sources used. People could select more than one source. Reponses included buying from someone they knew (52%, a decrease from 59% in 2021), from an unregulated/unauthorized online retailer (21%, unchanged from 2021), from a dealer (19%, unchanged from 2021), and from an unregulated/unauthorized storefront (15%, an increase from 11% in 2021). When asked about changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 75% indicated that there was no change in access to illegal/unlicensed cannabis (unchanged from 2021).
People were also asked to rank which factors most influenced from whom they usually obtain cannabis. The 3 factors with the highest percentage of first priority ranking were price (30%), safe supply (23%), and quality (12%) [Figure 14].
Average amount spent on cannabis each month
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months indicated typically spending close to $65 on cannabis products each month (unchanged from 2021). On average, females reported spending less on cannabis than males ($56 vs. $73 per month). The average amount spent ranged between provinces and territories from $55 to $95 per month.
Canadians who used cannabis in the past 30 days were asked how much they spent on cannabis from legal or illegal sources in the past 30 days. People reported spending approximately $65 to obtain cannabis from legal sources (an increase from $55 in 2021), and $19 from illegal sources (a decrease from $31 in 2021). The average amount spent on legal sources ranged from $46 to $86 between provinces and territories; and from $16 to $41 for illegal sources.
Cannabis products bought or received, and at what frequency
People who used cannabis in the past 30 days were asked about the cannabis products they bought or received and the frequency of these 2 occurrences. The most common response selected was buying or receiving dried flower/leaf (65%, unchanged from 2021), followed by edible cannabis (29%, unchanged from 2021), vape pens (22%, an increase from 18% in 2021), and cannabis oil for oral use (11%, a decrease from 14% in 2021). Hashish/kief (8%), concentrates/extracts (6%), cannabis beverages (8%), and topicals (2%) were all unchanged from 2021. For all products, the most common frequency of obtaining them was 1 day per month.
The average amount purchased in the past 30 days varied by product type. On average, people who used cannabis in the past 30 days purchased or received 21 grams of dried flower/leaf, 7 servings of edibles, 1.5 cannabis cartridges/vape pens, and 22 millilitres of cannabis oil for oral use (all unchanged from 2021).
Average price per unit of purchases, by product type
People who purchased cannabis in the past 30 days reported the average price paid per unit, by product type. Over the past 30 days, people spent the most on cannabis cartridges/vape pens ($38.64/cartridge) and concentrates and extracts ($35.32/gram) [both unchanged from 2021]. The average price per unit for more frequently used product types was $8.79 per gram of dried flower/leaf and $6.18 per serving of edible cannabis (both unchanged from 2021).
Proportion of people who use cannabis and receive cannabis products for free
Of the Canadians who obtained cannabis in the past 30 days, some reported receiving cannabis products for free. Overall, 11% of Canadians obtained edible cannabis for free and 12% obtained dried flower/leaf for free (both unchanged from 2021). Seven percent (7%) reported obtaining cannabis vape pens/cartridges for free.
Driving and cannabis
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months for non-medical purposes were asked about their driving habits relative to cannabis use and cannabis use in combination with alcohol or other drugs. All respondents were asked if they had ever been a passenger in a vehicle driven by someone who had consumed cannabis within 2 hours, and for their opinions on cannabis and driving.
People who operated a vehicle after using cannabis, and at what frequency
People who used cannabis in the past 12 months were asked about driving within 2 hours of smoking/vapourizing cannabis, and about driving within 4 hours of ingesting cannabis. Those who reported doing so in the past 30 days were also asked about the type of cannabis they used prior to driving.
Twenty-three percent (23%) of people who had used cannabis in the past 12 months reported that they had driven within 2 hours of smoking or vapourizing cannabis at some point in their life (an increase from 21% in 2021). Of these individuals, 37% reported having done so within the past 30 days; 28% within the past 12 months; and 35% reported having done so more than 12 months ago (all unchanged from 2021). Driving after smoking or vaping cannabis was more prevalent among males; individuals aged 20 to 24 years; and individuals aged 25 years and older (Figure 15).
The most common types of cannabis products smoked or vaped within 2 hours of driving were THC-predominant (40%) and THC-only (36%) products. Provincial and territorial rates of having ever driven within 2 hours of smoking or vapourizing cannabis ranged from 19% to 30%. Provincial and territorial rates of more recent periods (within the past 30 days and within the past 12 months) are suppressed for most regions due to the small sample size.
Among people who used cannabis in the past 12 months, 14% reported that they had driven within 4 hours of ingesting cannabis at some point in their life (unchanged from 2021). Of these individuals, 32% reported having done so within the past 30 days, 37% within the past 12 months, and 31% more than 12 months ago (all unchanged from 2021). Driving after ingesting cannabis was more prevalent among males (Figure 15). The most common types of cannabis ingested within 4 hours of driving were THC-predominant (39%) and THC-only (38%) products. Provincial and territorial rates of having ever driven within 4 hours of ingesting cannabis ranged from 9% to 18%. Provincial and territorial rates of more recent periods (within the past 30 days and within the past 12 months) are suppressed for most regions due to the small sample size.
People who operated a vehicle within 2 hours of using cannabis in combination with alcohol or other drugs in the past 30 days
People who indicated they had driven within 2 hours of smoking/vapourizing cannabis or within 4 hours of ingesting cannabis in the past 30 days, were also asked if they had driven a vehicle within 2 hours of using cannabis in combination with alcohol. Fourteen percent (14%) of them reported that they had driven a vehicle within 2 hours of using cannabis in combination with alcohol in the past 30 days.
The same people were also asked if they had driven a vehicle within 2 hours of using cannabis in combination with other drugs. Eight percent (8%) of them reported that they had done so in the past 30 days.
Reasons people operated a vehicle after recent use of cannabis in the past 30 days
People who indicated they had driven within 2 hours of smoking/vapourizing cannabis or within 4 hours of ingesting cannabis in the past 30 days, were asked why they drove after using cannabis. People were allowed to select more than one reason. The most common reason was because the person did not feel impaired (84%), followed by thinking they could drive carefully (19%), did not have far to drive (17%), no alternative transportation (10%), did not think they would be caught by law enforcement (10%), and other reasons (5%).
People who were passengers in a vehicle driven by someone within 2 hours of using cannabis
Canadians were asked if they had ever been a passenger in a vehicle driven by someone who had used cannabis within the previous 2 hours. Overall, 21% of people reported that this had occurred at some point in their lifetime (unchanged from 2021). This behaviour was more common among those who used cannabis themselves in the past 12 months (46%, a decrease from 50% in 2021) compared to those who did not use cannabis in the past year (12%, unchanged from 2021).
Among people who had used cannabis themselves in the past 12 months, 28% reported being a passenger of someone who had used cannabis within 2 hours of driving within the past 30 days (an increase from 18% in 2021), 29% reported it having occurred within the past 12 months (an increase from 25% in 2021), and 43% reported it having occurred more than 12 months ago (a decrease from 58% in 2021).
Among those people who did not use cannabis themselves in the past 12 months, 12% reported being a passenger within the past 30 days (an increase from 6% in 2021), 17% reported being a passenger within the past year (an increase from 13% in 2021), and 71% reported being a passenger more than 12 months ago (a decrease from 81% in 2021).
Provincial and territorial estimates of ever being a passenger in a vehicle driven by someone who had used cannabis within 2 hours of driving ranged from 18% to 32%.
Interaction with law enforcement related to driving
One percent (1%) of people who had used cannabis in the past 12 months reported having an interaction with law enforcement related to driving under the influence of cannabis, while they were the driver of a vehicle (unchanged from 2021).
Opinions on cannabis use and driving
People were asked for their opinions on how cannabis use affects driving. Overall, 82% of people reported that they think that cannabis use negatively affects driving (unchanged from 2021). Among those who have used cannabis in the past 12 months, 76% felt that cannabis use negatively affects driving, 13% responded that it depends, and 6% responded that it did not affect driving (all unchanged from 2021).
People were also asked for their opinion on the time it takes until it is safe to drive after different methods of consuming cannabis. They were first asked when it would be safe to drive after smoking/vaping cannabis and then when it would be safe to drive after eating/drinking cannabis. With respect to smoking/vaping, the 5 most common responses selected were “don’t know” (34%, unchanged), 8 or more hours (21%, unchanged from 2021), 3 hours to just under 5 hours (16%, unchanged), 5 hours to just under 7 hours (11%, a decrease from 12%), and 7 hours to just under 8 hours (7%, unchanged). Two percent (2%) indicated it would be safe to drive immediately after inhaling cannabis (unchanged from 2021).
With respect to eating/drinking cannabis, the 5 most common responses selected were “don’t know” (36%), 8 or more hours (31%), 5 hours to just under 7 hours (10%), 7 hours to just under 8 hours (9%), and 3 hours to just under 5 hours (8%) [all unchanged from 2021]. Two percent (2%) indicated it would be safe to drive immediately after ingesting cannabis (unchanged from 2021).
Opinions on likelihood of being caught driving under the influence
Canadians were asked how likely they thought it was that a person would be caught by police if they drove under the influence of alcohol or under the influence of cannabis. Likelihood was determined using a 5-point Likert scale, which had the following categories: not at all likely, not likely, somewhat likely, likely, and extremely likely.
Overall, most people thought it was “somewhat likely” that a person would be caught by police if they drove under the influence of alcohol or cannabis (42% and 39%, respectively). Another 43% (a decrease from 44% in 2021) of people believed it was “likely” or “extremely likely” that a driver would be caught when driving under the influence of alcohol, compared to less than a quarter (24%, unchanged from 2021) for driving under the influence of cannabis.
Cannabis for medical purposes
Cannabis use for medical purposes was defined in the CCS as cannabis used to treat or improve symptoms associated with a disease/disorder. Thirteen percent (13%) of Canadians aged 16 years and older indicated that they used cannabis for medical purposes, a decrease from 14% in 2021. Provincial and territorial estimates ranged from 6% to 18%.
When Canadians were asked if they used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 12 months, they were also asked to specify whether this use was with or without documentation from a healthcare professional. More than a quarter (27%, an increase from 22% in 2021) of those who used cannabis for medical purposes said they did so with a document from a healthcare professional. The majority of those using cannabis for medical purposes said they did not have a document from a healthcare professional (73%, a decrease from 78% in 2021).
Canadians who indicated they had used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 12 months were given the option to complete an additional section of the survey related to medical cannabis use. Questions there were asked about the source of the product, type of product, frequency of use, strain, how much was used in a typical day, diseases and symptoms addressed by cannabis use, and changes in use of other medications as a result of cannabis use.
Of the 1,273 respondents who indicated they had used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 12 months, 671 agreed to complete this medical use section. The following results presented under “Cannabis for medical purposes” were derived specifically from these 671 responses, weighted by sex, age and geography.
Recency of medical use
Of Canadians who used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 12 months and completed the medical section of the survey, 67% reported doing so in the past 30 days, a decrease from 74% in 2021.
Changes in use of other medications
Canadians who completed the medical section of the survey were asked if cannabis use for medical purposes allowed them to decrease their use of other medications. Fifty-three percent (53%) reported that cannabis use helped decrease their use of other medications and 21% reported that this question was not applicable (both unchanged from 2021).
Frequency of cannabis use for medical purposes
People who completed the medical section of the survey were asked to report the frequency with which they used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 12 months. The most common frequency reported was daily (31%), followed by less than 1 day per month (21%) and 2 to 3 days per month (17%) – all unchanged from 2021 (Figure 16).
Methods of consumption for medical purposes
Those who completed the medical section of the survey were asked which methods of cannabis consumption they used in the previous 12 months. Cannabis oil for oral use (51%) was the most common method reported. This was followed by smoking or eating cannabis in food (39% each), applying to skin (21%), vapourizing with vape pen or e-cigarette (19%), vapourizing with a vapourizer (10%), drinking (10%), and dabbing (6%).
People who used a vapourizer and/or vape pen were asked what cannabis product was used when vapourizing cannabis and the type of device used. The most common cannabis product used was liquid cannabis oil/extract (70%), followed by dried flower/leaf (47%), and solid cannabis extracts (24%). Among those who used a vape pen, the majority responded that they used a non-disposable vaping device (66%), followed a disposable vaping device (24%) and both disposable and non-disposable devices (9%).
Types of cannabis products used for medical purposes
People who completed the medical section of the survey were asked about the types of cannabis products they used within the past 12 months. The 3 main products used were cannabis oil for oral use (51%, unchanged from 2021), dried flower/leaf (41%, a decrease from 50% in 2021), and edibles (35%, unchanged from 2021). Other products reported included topical ointments (23%); cannabis cartridges/vape pens (20%); concentrates and extracts (10%); hashish/kief (9%); and beverages (8%) [all unchanged from 2021].
Those who completed the medical section of the survey were also asked about the frequency at which they used these cannabis products. Dried flower/leaf had a variety of responses, ranging from daily/almost daily use (46%), weekly use (22%), monthly use (16%), and less than 1 day a month (16%) [all unchanged from 2021]. Cannabis oil for oral use also had a variety of responses, ranging from daily/almost daily use (36%), monthly use (24%), weekly use (21%), and less than 1 day a month (19%) [all unchanged from 2021].
Relative levels of THC and CBD in cannabis products used for medical purposes
People who completed the medical section of the survey were asked about the relative levels of THC and CBD in the cannabis products they typically use. Twenty-nine percent (29%) indicated higher CBD and lower THC levels, 17% selected higher THC and lower CBD, 14% indicated equal levels of THC and CBD, 17% indicated using CBD-only products, 10% indicated they used a mix of different products, and 3% indicated using THC-only products. Nine percent (9%) indicated they did not know the relative levels of THC and CBD (all unchanged from 2021).
Average amount used on a typical use day for medical purposes
People who completed the medical section of the survey were also asked to report the average amount of cannabis used on a typical use day. Of those who used dried flower/leaf, the average amount used on a typical day was 1.7 grams. For other product types, consumption amounts were approximately 1.3 servings of edibles; 0.1 cartridges/vape pens; and 0.5 grams of hashish (all unchanged from 2021). There was no estimate for beverages in 2022. Among those who used cannabis oil for oral use, the average amount used was 1.1 millilitres, and for concentrates/extracts, the average amount was 0.3 grams (both unchanged from 2021).
Sources used to obtain cannabis products for medical purposes
People who completed the medical section of the survey were asked where they usually obtained cannabis for medical purposes (Figure 17). Note that responses to this in CCS 2022 are not comparable to past cycles of the survey (in which people were asked to select all sources rather than their typical source). The most commonly indicated source was from a legal storefront (45%). This was followed by a legal online medical retailer (i.e., directly from a Health Canada licensed producer authorized for medical sale) [17%] and legal online non-medical retailer (11%). Eight percent (8%) indicated they grew their own or had it grown for them, 5% indicated from a friend, 5% from a family member and 3% from an illegal online source. Of those who typically obtained cannabis from a Health Canada licensed producer, 69% reported that they would continue to access cannabis products directly from a licensed producer authorized for medical sale rather than from a legal retail store selling cannabis.
Average amount spent on cannabis for medical purposes in a typical month
People who used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 12 months and who completed the medical section of the survey spent approximately $74 on cannabis for medical purposes in a typical month (unchanged from 2021). People who used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 30 days were asked how much they spent on cannabis in the past 30 days from both legal and illegal sources. The average amount spent on cannabis from legal sources was $75 and the average amount spent on cannabis from illegal sources was $18 (both unchanged from 2021).
We also asked if people currently had insurance coverage for cannabis for medical purposes. Most people (91%) reported they did not have any insurance coverage (unchanged from 2021). Three percent (3%) indicated they had full insurance coverage and 5% said they were partially covered (both unchanged from 2021).
Cannabis products for medical purposes bought or received, and at what frequency
People who used cannabis for medical purposes in the past 30 days were asked about the cannabis products they bought or received in the past 30 days, and the frequency of these occurrences. The most common response selected was buying or receiving dried flower/leaf (41%), followed by cannabis oil for oral use (38%) and edible cannabis (23%) [all unchanged from 2021]. For all products, the most common frequency of obtaining them was one day per month.
The average amount purchased for medical use in the past 30 days varied by product type. On average, people who used cannabis for medical purposes purchased or received 23.6 grams of dried flower/leaf, 9.4 servings of edibles, and 1.4 cartridges/vape pens (all unchanged from 2021). For cannabis oil for oral use, the average quantity obtained was 27.6 millilitres (unchanged from 2021).
Average price per unit of cannabis purchases for medical purposes, by product type
People who purchased cannabis for medical purposes in the past 30 days also reported the average price per unit, by product type. The only product for which sufficient responses were received, so an estimate could be derived, was dried flower/leaf. The average price per unit was $7.99 per gram (unchanged from 2021).
Opinions on cannabis use for medical purposes and driving
People who completed the medical section of the survey were asked if they believed that cannabis use for medical purposes impairs one’s ability to drive. Over half (52%) said that “yes”, cannabis use for medical purposes impairs one’s ability to drive. A quarter (26%) said “it depends”, 15% said “no” and 7% did not know (all unchanged from 2021).
The same people were also asked for their opinion on the time until it was safe to drive after smoking or vaping cannabis, and after eating or drinking cannabis for medical purposes. The most common response selected for smoking or vaping cannabis was 3 to 5 hours (20%), followed by 8 or more hours (15%) and 5 to 7 hours (12%) [all unchanged from 2021]. Five percent (5%) indicated that it was safe to drive immediately after smoking or vaping cannabis for medical purposes; and 22% reported they did not know when it was safe to drive (both unchanged from 2021). The most common response selected for eating or drinking cannabis was 8 hours or more (31%), followed by 7 to 8 hours (13%) and 5 to 7 hours (12%) [all unchanged from 2021]. Three percent (3%) indicated that it was safe to drive immediately after ingesting cannabis and 21% reported they did not know when it was safe to drive (both unchanged from 2021).
Driving a vehicle after using cannabis for medical purposes, and at which frequency
Driving after using cannabis for medical purposes was studied among people who completed the medical section of the survey. The questions about driving after recent cannabis use were split based on the method of cannabis use. People were asked if they had ever driven within 2 hours of smoking or vapourizing cannabis and also if they had ever driven within 4 hours of orally ingesting cannabis. Overall, 18% reported they had driven within 2 hours of smoking or vapourizing cannabis within their lifetime (unchanged from 2021). Of those who had driven after smoking or vapourizing cannabis, 50% did so within the past 30 days, 27% within the past 12 months, and 23% did so more than 12 months ago (all unchanged from 2021).
When asked about driving within 4 hours of ingesting cannabis, 13% reported doing so in their lifetime (unchanged from 2021). Among those who had driven after ingesting cannabis, 52% reported doing so within the past 30 days, 26% within the past 12 months, and 22% did so more than 12 months ago (all unchanged from 2021).
A greater proportion of males (22%) reported driving within 2 hours of smoking or vapourizing cannabis for medical purposes compared to females (15%). This pattern persisted for driving within 4 hours of ingesting cannabis (19% for males and 10% for females).
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Cannabis Data Blog: Data over the past 5 years
The Cannabis Act came into effect on October 17, 2018. Key findings on cannabis use for non-medical purposes from CCS cycles for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022 are compared to examine self-reported changes since legalization and regulation.
Methods
The CCS uses a 2-step recruitment process. First, respondents are recruited by phone (landline or mobile) from lists of random telephone numbers. Respondents who pass a set of screening questions are then sent a link to an online survey, either by email or short message service (SMS) to their mobile phones. The average time to fill out the 2022 CCS was 29 minutes for respondents who reported using cannabis within the past 12 months and 13 minutes for respondents who reported that they had not used cannabis.
This summary presents survey findings from the 6th data collection cycle, which started April 4, 2022 and ended June 20, 2022. Survey findings were weighted by province/territories, age groups, and sex at birth. Survey results are based on responses from 10,048 respondents aged 16 years and older across all provinces and territories. For additional details refer to the Methodological report published on the Library and Archives Canada website.
The CCS was designed to obtain a sufficient number of respondents from key sub-populations. To ensure statistical relevance of results and representativeness, minimum sample sizes were determined and met for these sub-populations. Of the responses received, approximately 3,500 were from people who indicated that they had used cannabis in the past 12 months for either non-medical or medical purposes. Table 1 summarizes the sample size represented by the survey.
| no data | Females | Males | 16-19 years | 20-24 years | 25+ years | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | 5,123 | 4,925 | 850 | 1,174 | 8,024 | 10,048 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 216 | 195 | 17 | 16 | 378 | 411 |
| Prince Edward Island | 242 | 185 | 13 | 32 | 382 | 427 |
| Nova Scotia | 241 | 179 | 28 | 40 | 352 | 420 |
| New Brunswick | 224 | 191 | 22 | 42 | 351 | 415 |
| Quebec | 1,018 | 958 | 143 | 287 | 1,546 | 1,976 |
| Ontario | 1,332 | 1,370 | 326 | 374 | 2,002 | 2,702 |
| Manitoba | 219 | 187 | 40 | 52 | 314 | 406 |
| Saskatchewan | 202 | 217 | 30 | 35 | 354 | 419 |
| Alberta | 594 | 644 | 99 | 147 | 992 | 1,238 |
| British Columbia | 734 | 699 | 123 | 130 | 1,180 | 1,433 |
| TerritoriesTable 1 footnote 1 | 101 | 100 | 9 | 19 | 173 | 201 |
| Table 1 footnote 1 Territories include Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Return to Table 1 footnote 1 referrer | ||||||
Considerations
In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) a pandemic. Across Canada, public health measures were implemented, which included physical distancing from people other than those in your own household, in order to slow the spread of new cases. In 2022, some of the public health measures continue and have changed daily routines. These changes may have caused a change in behaviour related to cannabis use, including the amount of cannabis used, accessing sources of cannabis and the amount of money spent on cannabis.
Questions were added to the 2020, 2021, and 2022 surveys to understand the impact of COVID-19 on cannabis use.
When recruited, respondents were informed that the survey was about cannabis. This information may have created a participation bias in that those who use cannabis may have been more likely to complete the survey. For this and other methodological reasons, the CCS may provide prevalence estimates for cannabis use that are higher than other Canadian population-level surveys.
Health Canada monitors the prevalence of cannabis use among Canadians using several population surveys, including the Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CADS), the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), and the Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CSTADS). CADS 2019 indicates that 21% of Canadians age 15 and older (or 6.4 million) had used cannabis in the previous 12 months (22% among age 15 to 19 years; 45% among age 20 to 24 years; and 19% among age 25 years and older). CCHS 2019/2020 similarly finds that 21% of Canadians aged 15 and older had reported cannabis use in the previous 12 months. CSTADS 2018/19 indicates that 18% of students in grades 7 to 12 (approximately 374,000) had used cannabis in the previous 12 months.
