Study Reveals Cannabis Use Linked to Poorer Sleep Quality

Findings show that both lifetime and recent use of cannabis were associated with lower sleep quality, as measured by wrist-worn monitors. Participants reported no notable decline in their perceived sleep quality, highlighting a discrepancy between actual sleep quality and self-assessment.

Published on October 9 in JAMA Network Open, the study's corresponding author, Dr. Thanh-Huyen T. Vu, noted that the results challenge the widespread belief that cannabis is beneficial for sleep. The research indicates that long-term recreational cannabis use might correlate with poorer sleep quality, regardless of user perception.

The study analyzed data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study, which began in 1985-86 and follows Black and white adults across the U.S. Among 1,266 participants, higher cumulative cannabis exposure related to less time spent asleep and more fragmented sleep patterns. Recent cannabis users showed similar issues, such as lower sleep efficiency and prolonged wakefulness during the night.

Interestingly, while sleep disruptions were monitored, participants generally felt they slept well despite evidence to the contrary. After adjusting for various factors, including age, smoking, alcohol use, and mental health, cannabis was still associated with poorer sleep outcomes.

The study did not distinguish between different consumption methods, such as smoking versus edibles, and further research is needed to explore changing patterns of cannabis use over time.

Experts recommend established strategies for better sleep, including maintaining a regular bedtime and creating a conducive sleeping environment. Kristen L. Knutson, a study co-author and associate professor, emphasized the importance of a calming bedtime routine and consulting healthcare providers if sleep issues persist.

The study was part of the CARDIA project, funded by several health institutions, including the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.