Québec, April 12, 2023. – In 2022, nearly 1 out of 5 Quebecers (19%) used cannabis during the year—23% of men and 16% of women. No significant change was observed between 2021 and 2022, but the proportion of Quebecers who use cannabis has increased since 2018 (before legalization), rising from 14% to 19%. This was revealed in the Québec Cannabis Survey 2022 report released today by the Institut de la statistique du Québec.
Cannabis use in the 12 months prior to the survey, population aged 15 and over, Québec
Source: Institut de la statistique du Québec, Québec Cannabis Survey, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022.
Proportion of users higher among those aged 21 to 34
In 2022, the highest proportions of cannabis users were among individuals aged 21-24 (40%) and 25-34 (37%). Since 2018, the proportion of users has decreased among those aged 15-17 and has increased among those aged 25 and over.
Cannabis use in the 12 months prior to the survey by age group, population aged 15 and over, Québec
Source: Institut de la statistique du Québec, Québec Cannabis Survey, 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022.
Cannabis vaping increasingly popular
Among users, the proportion of those who vaped cannabis has increased over the past year (19% in 2021 vs. 24% in 2022). This proportion has grown from 44% in 2021 to 70% in 2022 among users aged 15 to 17, meaning that more than two out of three users in this age group vaped cannabis. Note that cannabis vaping products are not sold legally in Québec.
Still, the most popular way of using cannabis remains smoking. In 2022, 82% of users smoked cannabis, down from 85% in 2021.
How often do users consume cannabis?
Nearly 42% of Quebecers who consumed cannabis during the year used it less than one day a month, about 19% used it occasionally (1 to 3 days a month), 24% used it regularly (1 to 6 days a week), and 14% used it daily. These proportions are comparable to those observed every year since 2018.
Fewer users are obtaining cannabis from illegal suppliers
In 2022, approximately 67% of users had obtained cannabis at least once from the Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC), a similar proportion to that observed in 2021. Nearly 41% obtained it from a family member, friend, or acquaintance, and 8% from an illegal supplier, down from 11% in 2021. Note that users could report having obtained cannabis from several sources.
Vast majority of youth exposed to awareness messages
Approximately 79% of Quebecers aged 15 and over reported having seen or heard awareness messages (education campaigns or public health or safety messages) about cannabis in the 12 months prior to the survey. In proportion, those aged 15-17 were more likely to have been exposed to this type of message (91%), followed by those aged 18-20 (88%) and 21-24 (86%).
Read the full report (PDF, 2,24 Mo)
The Québec Cannabis Survey aims to measure changes in cannabis use in Québec. The survey was first conducted in 2018, prior to the legalization of cannabis, then again in 2019, 2021, and 2022. Data collection for QCS 2022 took place from February 2 to June 27, 2022. In addition to monitoring emerging trends, this survey follows the evolution of indicators such as methods of cannabis use, reasons for using, context of use, sources of supply, risk of problematic use, social norms and perceptions towards cannabis, and use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Institut de la statistique du Québec produces, analyzes and disseminates official, objective and quality statistical information on various aspects of Québec society. It is responsible for conducting all statistical surveys of general interest. The relevance of its work makes it a strategic ally for decision makers and all those wishing to learn more about Québec.