As SI was reported by 26.2% in the present study and SANP are particularly difficult to prevent (Conner, 2004), research on possible correlated factors is important. In the present study, cannabis involvement was related to SI regardless of duration and to SANP, even when controlling for possible confounders. However, the odds ratio was modest and results from some previous studies differed from ours, emphasizing the need for further replication. If cannabis use and endorsing CUD symptoms exacerbate the likelihood of these behaviors, then more well-designed studies are required to unpack the etiological mechanisms underpinning this association. Such research is particularly important in light of current developments regarding the legalization of cannabis use in the U.S. in the states of Washington and Colorado and also in other countries. As 3.9% of first-time cannabis users have been found to develop cannabis dependence within 24 months (Chen et al., 2005), with risk increasing with chronic use, the study of potential harmful correlates and consequences of cannabis use and escalating cannabis involvement should be made a priority.
