Russian Federation medical student knowledge, attitudes and beliefs toward medical cannabis

Objectives: To assess medical student knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about cannabis use for medical conditions in Russia where it is prohibited. Methods: This study uses data collected from 463 Russian origin medical students. Pearson Chi-square test for categorical variables was used to determine whether student knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of medical cannabis (MC) are affected by gender and religiosity. Results: Overall, Russian university medical students tend to reflect negative attitudes and beliefs toward MC. Female students were more inclined to recommend MC for patient treatment and its legalization; and, believe it is not addictive and does not pose physical or mental health risk. Students who support MC use believe it has treatment benefits, support additional research as well as policy change for its legalization. Secular, more than religious, students report more positive attitudes toward MC use. About 34% of the students indicate they have no knowledge about cannabis use for medical conditions; and, nearly half report feel they are able to answer patient questions about its use for medical condition if such a situation were to exist. Conclusions: This study is the first in Russia to examine medical students' knowledge, attitudes and beliefs toward MC. Results evidence the majority of survey respondents do not support cannabis legalization for any purpose medical or recreational. They report a dearth of knowledge about the substance and recommend additional evidence-based research and education to enhance their knowledge about its use. The present study has value in terms of providing usable information for possible curriculum development and education purposes as well as policy change about cannabis use for medical conditions in Russia.