The Government of Alberta is funding a research project, looking into the effects of cannabis on individuals aged 25 and under.
A one-time grant of about $280,000 will be given to conduct a review of the available evidence and data regarding the impacts of cannabis use on youth. With this review, Alberta is convening leading experts from the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, Dalhousie University, Harvard Medical School, and the University of Birmingham.
Following the review, evidence collected could inform future policy changes in Alberta and recommend policy changes to ensure children and youth are protected from the harms of cannabis.
The move comes five years after cannabis was legalized federally, making it more accessible for Canadians once they turn 18.
“As cannabis products have become more widely available, we must continue to evaluate their health impacts – particularly on young people whose brains are still developing. I look forward to working with leading experts from around the world to closely examine the evidence and help inform decisions in the best interest of Albertans,” said Blair Gibbs, former advisor to the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and policy consultant.
The project will be the first in Canada to include a detailed province-wide survey of young adults between 18 and 24 on the topic.
It’s anticipated that work funded by this grant will be completed in summer 2024.
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