“Stoned on the road”: A systematic review of cannabis-impaired driving educational initiatives targeting young drivers in Canada

Background

With recreational cannabis legalized across Canada, concerns persist about youth driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC). However, the extent of DUIC education and prevention efforts aimed at young Canadians remains unclear. This systematic review examines recent Canadian initiatives (2017 onwards) focused on reducing DUIC among youth. Specifically, we investigate (1) the types of initiatives and target audiences, (2) content and delivery methods, (3) sustainability, and (4) evidence of impact.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted across MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and EMBASE (January 1, 2017–July 10, 2023), along with various grey literature sources. Initiatives were included if they targeted DUIC behaviour among youth aged 16 to 24, were developed and delivered in Canada by reputable organizations or individuals with institutional support, and aimed to address DUIC behaviour or its enabling conditions. Data extraction and quality appraisal were performed.

Results

Fifteen Canadian initiatives were identified: seven educational programs and eight awareness campaigns, encompassing national and regional levels. Delivery methods included in-person workshops, digital tools, online programs, and smartphone applications. While some initiatives increased awareness and influenced perceptions of DUIC, evidence of behaviour change remained limited. Challenges related to sustainability, particularly concerning long-term funding and digital platform maintenance, were noted.

Conclusions

This research highlights the progress made in addressing youth DUIC in Canada. Examining current DUIC educational initiatives is crucial for refining strategies, shaping policy, and allocating resources to prioritize the safety of young Canadians. Future efforts should focus on assessing behavioural impacts and ensuring financial sustainability and program longevity.