What topics does this cannabis study cover?

This study covers research on: Addiction.

Where was this research published?

Published in Journal of cannabis research on February 6, 2026.

Marijuana Use Linked to Body Image Risks in Sexual Minority Men

Q: What did this research study find?

**Sexual minority marijuana users had 2-3x higher odds** of engaging in unhealthy weight control behaviors

Marijuana use and its association with unhealthy weight control and muscle-enhancing behaviors among sexual minority men in the United States: a cross-sectional analysis.

Journal of cannabis research • February 6, 2026 • Relevant

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AI Summary

A recent cross-sectional study has uncovered significant associations between marijuana use and unhealthy body image behaviors among sexual minority men in the United States. The research, drawing from the Men's Body Project, reveals that men who use marijuana have substantially higher odds of engaging in risky weight control and muscle-enhancement practices.

The study found statistically significant correlations across multiple behaviors, including diet pill use, protein powder consumption, and potentially dangerous practices like fasting and steroid use. Sexual minority men who reported marijuana use were 2-3 times more likely to engage in these behaviors compared to non-users, highlighting a complex intersection between substance use and body image concerns within LGBTQ+ communities.

These findings underscore the critical need for targeted public health interventions that address both substance use and body image challenges. While the study does not imply causation, it draws attention to the nuanced relationships between marijuana consumption and health behaviors among a population already experiencing higher rates of body dissatisfaction and mental health challenges.

💡 Key Findings

Sexual minority marijuana users had 2-3x higher odds of engaging in unhealthy weight control behaviors

High

85%

Highest association found with diet pill use (adjusted odds ratio of 3.12)

High

80%

Significant correlations across seven different body image-related behaviors

Good

75%

📄 Original Abstract

Following marijuana legalization in several U.S. states, motivations for its use have expanded, especially among marginalized populations. While prior research links marijuana use with disordered eating, little is known about this relationship within sexual minority groups, who are already at elevated risk for body dissatisfaction and unhealthy weight control behaviors. This study examines associations between marijuana use and unhealthy weight control and muscle-enhancing behaviors among sexual minority men in the U.S. We conducted a secondary analysis using data from the Men's Body Project, a cross-sectional study on body image and health behaviors. The sample included sexual minority men across diverse backgrounds. Logistic regression was used to assess associations between marijuana use and seven behaviors considered risk factors linked to body image concerns: fasting, vomiting, laxative use, diet pill use, muscle-building supplement use, protein powder use, and anabolic steroid use. Marijuana users had significantly greater odds of engaging in all measured behaviors. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) ranged from 1.88 (fasting) to 3.12 (diet pill use), all with p-values < 0.001. Other notable associations included vomiting (AOR = 2.61), laxative use (AOR = 2.23), protein powder use (AOR = 2.60), and anabolic steroid use (AOR = 2.62). Our results suggest a significant association between marijuana use and elevated odds of engaging in unhealthy weight control and muscle-enhancing behaviors among sexual minority men. Findings highlight the need for tailored public health interventions addressing both substance use and body image within LGBTQ + communities.