Consumo de Marihuana en Adolescentes Puertorriqueños: Factores Protectores Frente a una Mayor Accesibilidad.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of marijuana and other drugs use in a sample of Puerto Rican adolescents.  In addition, it aimed to examine the factors associated with the reduction of marijuana use in this population.  We conducted secondary data analysis with a sample of 8,092 participants who completed Youth Consultation IX. The results show that alcohol (44.5%) continues to be the drug with the highest use among adolescents; However, for the first time, marijuana ranks second (12.1%) among the most commonly used drugs. On the other hand, the results of the binary logistic regression analysis suggest that positive family relationship, negative attitudes towards marijuana use and perception of risk are factors associated with a decrease in the probability of marijuana use. Not like that, the occupation of free time and receiving therapeutic support. This study provides favorable evidence on decrease in risk perception in adolescents, and the possible normalization of marijuana use due to greater accessibility. The results also, provides opportunities for the design of programs aimed to prevention and harm reduction in adolescents of Puerto Rico.