Cannabis use among adolescents and young adults in Germany: Study results and prevention measures offered by the Federal Institute of Public Health

Abstract

Background: With the passage of the Consumer Cannabis Act, cannabis was partially legalised on 1 April 2024 in Germany. Cannabis remains prohibited for adolescents under the age of 18. This article analyses how the prevalence of cannabis use among young people in Germany has developed up to this point and presents prevention measures and funding projects offered by the Federal Institute of Public Health (BIÖG, formerly the Federal Centre for Health Education, BZgA). Methods: Based on representative studies by the BIÖG, sociodemographic differences in 2023 and trends in the 12-month prevalence of cannabis use between 2008 and 2023 are analysed for 12- to 17-year-old adolescents and 18- to 25-year-old young adults. Current prevention measures are systematically presented. Results: The 12-month prevalence of cannabis use remained relatively stable among female and male adolescents before partial legalisation, but increased significantly among young women (2008: 8.3 %; 2023: 19.4 %) and men (2008: 14.8 %; 2023: 26.9 %). Cannabis prevention measures focus on the school setting and digital services. Conclusions: The effects of partial legalisation on cannabis use among adolescents and young adults must be evaluated in future studies. The BIÖG offers well-founded information on cannabis, its effects and health risks, as well as digital counselling services and self-tests for different target groups, and is continuously expanding its services.