| Title: | Demographic, economic, and social status and knowledge of medical and alternative cannabis use among Northeastern Thai citizens: A case study of outpatients at community hospitals along the Thai–Cambodian border |
| Researcher: | Pattarachit Choompol Gozzoli, Suyanee Pongthananikorn, Tanattha Kitisopee, Sathian Phunpon, Kamolwan Tantipiwattanasakul, Phakarat Tangkheunkan, Kannikar Khaw-ngern, Kritsada Chakchai, Niyada Kiatying-Angsulee & Shinnawat Saengungsumalee |
| Degree: | Doctor of Pharmacy Program in Pharmaceutical Care |
| Major: | Pharm.D. (Pharm.Care) |
| Faculty of study: | Pharmacy |
| Academic year: | 2568 (2025) |
| Published: | Journal of Cannabis Research volume 7, Article number: 81 (2025) Click |
Abstract
Objectives
This study aimed to examine the demographic, economic, and social characteristics of the population in relation to their experiences with cannabis use and their accurate knowledge regarding its therapeutic properties and side effects when used in conjunction with conventional and alternative medicine and analyze the legal clarity concerning cannabis regulations and to propose communication strategies for effectively disseminating knowledge about its therapeutic properties and potential side effects when used for medical purposes.
Method
A cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted between March and August 2024 at a 30-bed community hospital along the Thai-Cambodian border. The sample included 618 Thai outpatients (429 females, 189 males) aged 18–86 years, selected via systematic structured interval-based sampling. Data were collected through face-to-face structured interviews using a validated questionnaire covering demographics, cannabis use history, and knowledge of medical uses and side effects.
Results
Only 14.24% of respondents had prior cannabis use experience. While most were aware of cannabis legalization, a large proportion showed Limited understanding of its approved medical indications or side effects. Over 60% of participants answered “do not know” about therapeutic benefits or adverse effects. Differences in knowledge were found across age groups and education levels, but awareness was relatively low among health volunteers (Village Health Volunteers).
Conclusions
Despite policy liberalization, knowledge gaps concerning medical cannabis remain widespread, especially regarding its safe and appropriate use. The findings highlight the need for targeted public education, regulatory clarity, and culturally appropriate communication strategies to ensure safe usage and minimize health risks, particularly in sensitive border areas.
Keywords: Cannabis use, Medical cannabis, Thailand, Knowledge
รศ.ดร. ฐณัฎฐา กิตติโสภี, ดร. ภก.เสถียร พูลผล, ดร. ภญ.กมลวรรณ ตันติพิวัฒนสกุล, ดร. ภญ.ผการัตน์ ตั้งเขื่อนขันธ์ และอ. ภก.ชินวัจน์ แสงอังศุมาลี – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tanattha Kittisopee, Dr. Sathian Phunpon, Dr. Kamolwan Tantipiwattanaskul, Dr. Phakarat Tangkheunkan & Mr. Shinnawat Saengungsumalee. 2568 (2025). Demographic, economic, and social status and knowledge of medical and alternative cannabis use among Northeastern Thai citizens: A case study of outpatients at community hospitals along the Thai–Cambodian border. บทความ (Paper). วิทยาศาสตร์สุขภาพ|Health Science. เภสัชศาสตร์ (Pharmacy). เภสัชศาสตรบัณฑิต ภ.บ. (การบริบาลทางเภสัชกรรม) – Pharm.D. (Pharm.Care). หลักสูตรเภสัชศาสตรบัณฑิต สาขาวิชาการบริบาลทางเภสัชกรรม – Doctor of Pharmacy Program in Pharmaceutical Care. Bangkok: Siam University
