Community variation in adolescent cannabis use in Australia and the Netherlands.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: While controversial, cannabis use is common, and often begins in adolescence. In Australia and the Netherlands, cannabis use is understood and legislated within a harm-minimisation framework. In Australia it is illegal to purchase or consume cannabis. Cannabis use in the Netherlands is illegal, except in licensed coffee shops where the sale and consumption of small amounts (5 g) are permitted. METHODS: Secondary school aged children in Victoria, Australia and the Netherlands were surveyed using the same culturally adapted questionnaire, designed to measure community rates of substance use and risk factors. Youth cannabis use and predictors of use were compared between the two cou..