Grant: Doctoral Research Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Chronic pain (pain lasting longer than three months) affects up to 20% of the Canadian population. Individuals who suffer from chronic pain experience reduced social functioning, mental health, and cognitive functioning, leading to a poorer quality of life. The risk for experiencing chronic pain increases as people age. There is some evidence that medical cannabis may improve quality of life in older adults suffering from chronic pain, but more research is needed given the recent legalization of cannabis in Canada. This study aims to determine how cannabis use impacts social functioning, mental health, and cognition among individuals with chronic pain. Middle aged and older adults (aged 45+) experiencing chronic pain will complete a series of cognitive and psychological tests via a self-administered online format. We will recruit a subset of adults who use cannabis (either prescription or self-obtained) as a treatment for their chronic pain symptoms. We will examine how various facets of psychosocial and cognitive functioning impact quality of life in chronic pain and the impact of cannabis use on each of these indicators. Findings will inform patients and clinicians (e.g., primary care physicians, neurologists, neuropsychologists) on how cannabis use may affect physical, psychosocial, and cognitive functioning in individuals using cannabis as a treatment for chronic pain. This knowledge will aid in evaluating the pros and cons of choosing cannabis as a treatment, and will thus assist patients and clinicians to make informed decisions on whether or not to choose cannabis as a treatment option for chronic pain.