Evaluation of students’ knowledge of cannabis influence on human health
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12923/j.2084-980X/26.2/a.25Keywords:
cannabis, cannabis perception, medical marijuanaAbstract
Active ingredients of cannabis are reported to possess a dis tinct pharmacological effect on human body and may therefore be utilized to treat certain diseases. However, according to the Polish law cannabis is an illicit drug. As opinions on cannabis are conflicting, negative perception and lack of knowledge and of cannabis may hinder its future medical use. The aim of this study was to evaluate students’ knowledge of cannabis and cannabis products. The study was performed using a survey method; respondents (176 students representing various courses and universities) answered the questions included in a questionnaire. Questions concerned cannabis impact on human health and its po ten tial use in medical practice. Study participants were also asked about their sources of information on cannabis. The re sult showed that although the majority of the study participants knew about possible use of cannabis in medicine, the knowl edge of specific cannabis uses was low. It can be therefore concluded that there is a risk of future ion of the medical use of cannabis by patients due to insufficient knowledge. The basic knowledge should be included in educating students on drugs and their health impact. Most of the respondents declared media, as a source of information on cannabis.
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