The Association of Private Family Doctors (APFD) supports the views of other organizations that have already issued a position statement on the legalization of responsible use of cannabis, namely the Association of Psychiatry in collaboration with Caritas Malta, Sedqa and Oasi Foundation, and the Malta Association of Public Health Medicine.

The Association recognizes the need for decriminalization of the possession of small quantities of cannabis for personal use, however it is felt that legalizing its use will lead to an increase in its overall consumption and a potential increase in use of other illicit drugs. Moreover, use of cannabis in adolescents and young adults whose brain is still developing has been proven to have more harmful effects than consumption by people above this age, and it is also in this age group that the risk of dependance and move towards harder illicit drugs is more likely. Therefore as an Association, we would like to propose a minimum age for legalizing the use of cannabis. Furthermore, allowing the cultivation of cannabis plants in homes will inevitably make cannabis more accessible to minors and young adults living at home, posing a real risk of starting the use at a younger age than expected. We need to shield our younger generation from this risk.

In this context of legalization, the APFD would also like to suggest a focus on increasing educational campaigns targeted at adolescents and younger adults in an attempt to limit the recreational use of the drug. This is in the interest of better mental and physical health of our younger generation and community overall. Alcohol and cigarettes are legal but account for considerable morbidity and mortality in our communities. Similarly it must be stressed that cannabis use can have harmful effects and being natural does not mean it is free from ill-effects.

Nevertheless, public campaigns aiming at destigmatization by society of cannabis users may lead to better reporting of undesirable effects from individual users and encouraging seeking help for such effects earlier, thereby allowing for better provision of care and improved overall health.

Furthermore the APFD would like to suggest continued investment in rehabilitation services, support services and community outreach services for users, which as we are all aware are already present and functional. Continued support is the key.