Abstract Details

Title Examining Associations Between Cannabinoid Products and Fall Risk in Patients with Neurological Conditions: Multiple Sclerosis, Polyneuropathy, Parkinson’s Disease, and Stroke

Topic General Neurology

Presentation(s) General Neurology Posters (7:00 AM-5:00 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 087

Objective To determine if use of cannabinoid products has a significant association with fall risk in patients of various neurological conditions that use said products for ameliorative effect.

Background There are limited studies exploring the relationship between fall risk and cannabinoid use, specifically for patients with neurological conditions, and it is an important one to consider as its use in pain management becomes more prevalent.

Design/Methods Eligible subjects were determined via retrospective chart review of the Bristol Hospital medical network from January 2014 to August 2020, with inclusion criteria of demonstrated history of one of the above medical conditions, along with history of fall, determined both by ICD-10 codes and written accounts within the patient’s record. Exclusion criteria included history of opioid use/dependence, bed-bound conditions, or gait disorders. Said subjects were then prospectively surveyed on their recent fall history, use of cannabinoid products, and current medications via email and phone.

Results A total of 1217 charts were reviewed, with 192 patients found to be eligible for our study. The presence of falls was noted in 36 (19.7%) patients with Parkinson’s disease, 88 (16.8%) with polyneuropathy, 37 (22%) with multiple sclerosis, and 31 (8.6%) with a history of stroke. 89 surveys have been disseminated to determine marijuana exposure, four of which have been returned. 3 reported daily marijuana usage and 1 respondent reported no marijuana use, with an average of 3.6 falls in the last 12 months and 3 falls, respectively.

Conclusions Preliminary data of fall frequency is similar between groups compared to studies examining fall frequency among community dwelling older adults. More responses will be required to determine whether there is a significant difference between marijuana users and nonusers. However, preliminary data suggests that marijuana usage is an important consideration when assessing fall risk in patients with common neurological conditions.

Authors/Disclosures
Janardan S. Sivapalan PRESENTER	Mr. Sivapalan has nothing to disclose.
Frank Salamone	Mr. Salamone has nothing to disclose.
Kateryna Kurako, MD	Dr. Kurako has nothing to disclose.

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