Maltese health and social wellbeing student knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about medical cannabis

Abstract

Given the recent emergence of medical cannabis legalization in Malta, the objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about medical cannabis among a sample of Maltese students. The sample comprised 327 students enrolled in the University of Malta’s Faculties of Health Sciences, Medicine and Surgery, and Social Wellbeing. The vast majority of respondents expressed a desire for formal education and training about medical cannabis. While 52 % of the study cohort felt prepared to answer patient or client questions about medical cannabis, 83 % reported no formal education about medical cannabis. Findings evidence the need for medical cannabis curriculum, education, training and field practice for University of Malta students who will soon be professionals promoting health care.