Recreational marijuana use in a bariatric clinic population

Background: Use of marijuana for both medicinal and recreational purposes has been linked to the stimulation of appetite and weight gain. Anecdotal observation of patients in a bariatric clinic indicated that this population engaged in marijuana use, despite their problems with weight management. We conducted a chart review to see elucidate the marijuana use patterns in a bariatric population. Methods: A retrospective chart review was done on 20 patients. Marijuana use was identified, as well as the use of cigarettes, alcohol and other illegal drugs, as well as age of obesity onset.Results: 25% of the patients used marijuana, which is higher that usage patterns for the general population (8.7%). Marijuana was not associated with use of other substances, or with age of onset of obesity. Interpretation: We found a pattern of increased marijuana use in patients in a bariatric clinic. Further research is needed to better understand the nature of this finding and how it contributes to behavioral and pharmacological treatments of obesity. © 2011 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.