Health Canada has released the results of the 2024 Canadian Cannabis Survey, providing key insights into how Canadians are consuming and thinking about marijuana.
Conducted over the course of two months, the survey collected responses from over 11,600 individuals aged 16 and older across Canada, offering a comprehensive look at trends in use, access, and public knowledge.
While smoking remains the most popular method of cannabis consumption, its prevalence is decreasing. According to the survey, 69% of users reported smoking cannabis, a significant drop compared to previous years. Other methods, such as eating (57%) and vaporizing with a vape pen or e-cigarette (37%), continue to gain traction.
Accessing cannabis legally has become the norm for the vast majority of Canadians. In 2024, 72% of respondents reported obtaining cannabis from legal sources, compared to just 37% in 2019. Illegal access has dropped dramatically, with only 3% of users citing it as their source, down from 16% five years ago. Legal storefronts have been the most common source since 2019.
The survey revealed a significant decrease in driving after cannabis use, with 18% of cannabis users admitting to the practice in the past year, down from 27% in 2018. This decline suggests that public awareness efforts about the dangers of impaired driving may be making an impact.
Rates of cannabis use among youth aged 16-19 have remained steady, with 41% reporting past-year use, consistent with figures from previous years. Among those who use cannabis, approximately 25% reported daily or near-daily use—a pattern that has remained stable since 2018.
Health Canada continues to emphasize education for youth, given their heightened vulnerability to cannabis’s effects on brain development, which continues until about age 25. Initiatives such as the “Pursue Your Passion” virtual education program and campaigns to prevent pediatric cannabis poisonings highlight the government’s commitment to minimizing risks.
The 2024 survey also explored new topics, including the ease of access to legal and illegal cannabis, recall of health warnings, and the types of edibles and pre-rolled products being used. This expanded scope underscores Health Canada’s dedication to understanding evolving trends and informing public health strategies.
The Canadian Cannabis Survey serves as a cornerstone of Health Canada’s public health approach to legalized marijuana, providing data across seven key themes: knowledge, use, sources, risks, accidental consumption, driving, and medical purposes. By identifying areas for improvement, such as secure storage and responsible consumption, the government aims to reduce risks while fostering informed decision-making.
As Canada marks several years of legalized marijuana, the survey reflects encouraging shifts in consumption and safety, alongside the continued need for targeted education and support.
