A new study has found that cannabis use significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes for individuals under 50 years old. Researchers from Boston University analyzed healthcare records of over 4.6 million patients and discovered that cannabis users in this age group faced a sixfold increase in the risk of heart attacks compared to non-users.
In addition to heart attack risk, the study revealed that cannabis users had a fourfold greater risk of suffering a stroke, double the risk of heart failure, and a threefold increased risk of dying from heart attacks or strokes. The findings will be published in the journal JACC: Advances.
The research team, led by Boston University clinical instructor Ibrahim Kamel, utilized data from the TriNetX health research network, which provides access to non-identified healthcare records. They focused on individuals under 50 years old between 2010 and 2018, identifying around 90,000 cannabis users and an equally sized control group of non-users. The results showed that the risks of heart-related issues were significantly higher among those who used cannabis.
In a statement from the American College of Cardiology (ACC), Kamel emphasized the importance of discussing cannabis use with patients, especially as its legalization spreads across the United States. He suggested that healthcare providers should inquire about patients’ cannabis consumption similar to how they ask about smoking cigarettes. Kamel stated, “A fair warning should be made so that the people who are consuming cannabis know that there are risks.”
However, Kamel also highlighted the need for caution in interpreting the results. He noted that cannabis use often correlates with the consumption of other substances, such as cocaine, which were not accounted for in the study. He encouraged patients to be honest with their doctors, saying that having a complete understanding of their health is crucial.
Importantly, the study did not differentiate between methods of cannabis consumption, such as smoking versus edibles, nor did it consider varying levels of use. Kamel pointed out that there can be significant differences in effects between heavy users and those who consume cannabis occasionally.
The findings serve as a stark reminder that cannabis use may not be without consequences, challenging the perception that it is a risk-free substance.
