A survey of more than 1,000 people in Germany who had used cannabis in the last 12 months reveals some interesting insights.
After legalising cannabis for medical use in 2017, Germany’s parliament passed the Cannabis Act early this year legalising possession and cultivation for recreational purposes. But Germans can’t buy cannabis in stores for recreational use – they need to grow it themselves or join a heavily regulated club.
So, perhaps it’s no surprise a recent survey by Germany’s Bloomwell indicates many Germans are still sourcing illegally acquired cannabis.
Its survey of 1,009 cannabis users found just 10% of respondents had exclusively obtained cannabis legally from a pharmacy in the last twelve months. Close to 60% of consumers continue to obtain their cannabis illegally on a regular basis. This is despite 26% stating they had purchased contaminated cannabis, and around 31% had obtained poor quality products through the illegal market in the past.
As for motivations for consuming cannabis:
- 94% of respondents cited at least one health-related reason.
- More than half take cannabis to relieve sleep problems.
- 60% use it to reduce stress.
34% of respondents said that their symptoms negatively impacted their work and 36% their everyday life. Around 20% of these patients were able to reduce or completely stop taking additional medication to relieve symptoms through the use of cannabis.
“Our survey shows that 78% of respondents have had negative experiences on the illegal market or are afraid of possible health risks,” states Bloomwell (translated). “Despite this, only 11% of users report that they are already patients.”
One of the reasons behind continuing to source products via illicit channels may be down to the doctor aspect. Over 90% of those surveyed cannot find a doctor receptive to cannabis therapy, and who has the necessary expertise. Another reason may be stigma still associated with cannabis, even used medicinally.
“The Cannabis Act has created the legal framework, but in reality there are still many hurdles to overcome – especially in terms of thinking and social acceptance,” says Bloomwell.
The full survey results report can be viewed here (in German)
It should be noted that Bloomwell is a digital platform providing medical cannabis patients an online service; allowing them to register, consult with doctors, and receive prescriptions.
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