PROJECT SUMMARY Abstract and Aims of Parent Grant. Given the shifts in social perceptions and legalization efforts relating to cannabis use, it is imperative to determine the complex interplay between cannabis use and cardiovascular health. Researchers have identified an association between cannabis use and cardiovascular events, but no study exists measuring associations between cannabis use frequency and autonomic health in young adults. In addition to addressing this gap in the literature, the current project will look to assess this association in African Americans/Blacks at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU). In this burgeoning literature, no study has examined the prevalence of Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) in a sample with more than 15% African Americans, with no published study examining students at an HBCU. The two aims presented in this proposal focus on the cannabis use frequency/quantity and determine differences in heart rate variability (HRV) between those with CUD and non-substance use disorder students at Virginia State University, an HBCU in central Virginia. Overall Aim 1: To examine the relationship between frequency and quantity of cannabis use and resting heart rate variability. To accomplish this aim, we will use a self-reported substance use assessment to assess recent cannabis use and a Heart Rhythm Scanner to record participants' electrocardiographic activity at baseline. We hypothesize that: 1) frequent cannabis use will be associated with lower heart rate variability and 2) using larger quantities of cannabis use will be associated with lower heart rate variability. Overall Aim 2: To determine the difference in 24-hour heart rate variability immediately following cannabis use among cannabis users. To accomplish this aim, we will analyze ecg measurements averaged from data collected over a 24 hour period. We hypothesize that participants with CUD will have significantly lower heart rate variability than their non-using counterparts. Relevance If awarded, Emma Quarles (Candidate) will leverage the numerous training resources at VSU and the Regional Wright Center for Clinical Sciences at VCU. Emma will have access to both coursework and hands-on experience to continue to develop into a stronger candidate for graduate school, with the tools and abilities to compete for NIH funding. Her project will examine the ability of CUD to moderate the association between vigilance and heart rate variability among young adult African Americans/Blacks. Further, this pilot project fits very well within the Parent R15 Cannabis Nexus Initiative (1R15DA052886-01A1), led by Dr. Larry Keen (Primary Mentor). Specifically, it will add a brief self-report measure to the screening phase of the Parent R15 project. If awarded, Emma Quarles (Candidate) will have the products (2 submitted manuscripts, completed coursework, etc), experience (number of participants assessed, data analysis, etc), and exposure through mentorship and professi...