Understanding Cannabis and Liquor Patterns in Canada

Canada has seen significant changes in substance use patterns over the past few years, especially with the legalization of cannabis in 2018. Let’s take a closer look at how cannabis use compares to liquor use in the country.

Cannabis Use in Canada

Since the legalization of cannabis for non-medical purposes, its use has increased. According to Statistics Canada, 22% of Canadians aged 15 years and older reported using cannabis in the past year as of 2021. The rates of cannabis use vary by region, with higher usage in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Interestingly, cannabis use is most common among 18- to 24-year-olds.

Liquor Use in Canada

Liquor remains a widely consumed substance in Canada. The Canadian Alcohol and Drugs Survey (CADS) reported that 76% of Canadians consumed an alcoholic beverage in the past year as of 2019: summary of results for 2019](https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-alcohol-drugs-survey/2019-summary.html). This figure has remained relatively stable over the years: summary of results for 2019](https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-alcohol-drugs-survey/2019-summary.html). Males are more likely to consume alcohol compared to females, with 78% of males and 75% of females reporting past-year alcohol use: summary of results for 2019](https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-alcohol-drugs-survey/2019-summary.html). The prevalence of alcohol use is higher among young adults aged 20 to 24, with 84% reporting past-year use: summary of results for 2019](https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-alcohol-drugs-survey/2019-summary.html).

Comparing the Two

While both substances are popular, there are notable differences in their usage patterns: summary of results for 2019](https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-alcohol-drugs-survey/2019-summary.html). Cannabis use has seen a significant increase since legalization, whereas liquor use has remained relatively stable. Additionally, cannabis use is more prevalent among younger age groups, whereas liquor use is more evenly distributed across different age groups: summary of results for 2019](https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/canadian-alcohol-drugs-survey/2019-summary.html).

Conclusion

In summary, while both cannabis and liquor are widely used in Canada, their usage patterns and health implications differ. As the country continues to navigate the impacts of cannabis legalization, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve.