Long-term cannabis use, whether through smoking or consuming edibles like gummies, correlates with an increased risk of heart disease. A recent study by researchers at UC San Francisco, published in JAMA Cardiology on May 28, reveals that both methods of consumption impact cardiovascular health similarly.
The study involved 55 participants aged 18 to 50, all described as ‘outwardly healthy.’ Participants fell into three categories: those who smoked marijuana regularly, those who consumed THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) edibles, and a control group that did not use cannabis. Each cannabis user reported consuming the substance at least three times a week for a minimum of one year. The smokers had an average history of 10 years, while those who used edibles had been doing so for about five years.
Upon testing in September 2024, all cannabis users exhibited decreased vascular function, comparable to tobacco smokers. Blood vessel function in these users was roughly half that of those who did not consume cannabis. This impairment is linked to a heightened risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure, and other cardiovascular diseases.
Interestingly, while both smoking and edible consumption negatively affected vascular function, the study noted different underlying mechanisms. Smokers also showed harmful changes in their blood serum that affected the cells lining their blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, a finding not observed among edible users.
Researchers stated, ‘Chronic cannabis smoking and THC ingestion were associated with endothelial dysfunction similar to that observed in tobacco smokers, although apparently occurring via distinct mechanisms.’ They emphasized the importance of recognizing the risks associated with cannabis use, stressing that it is not without health consequences.
Dr. Bradley Serwer, a cardiologist based in Maryland and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, commented that the findings align with existing knowledge about the negative health effects of THC. He noted, ‘We have known that the chronic use of THC-containing compounds can have negative health consequences — this study just reaffirms those prior studies.’
Despite the study’s findings, Dr. Serwer pointed out several limitations, including the small sample size and the reliance on self-reported cannabis use, which can introduce bias. Variability in cannabis strains also complicates standardization. Additionally, the study did not assess hard endpoints like heart attacks or strokes, focusing instead on physiological markers.
Dr. Serwer cautioned that while the study’s physiologic endpoints suggest potential cardiovascular events, the actual risks associated with cannabis use should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. He emphasized the need for patients to consider the risks against the therapeutic uses of cannabis. ‘As clinicians, we must weigh the benefits and the risks of a medicine or drug. If the risks outweigh the benefits, it should be avoided,’ he stated.
The study received funding from several organizations, including the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the California Department of Cannabis Control. As the cannabis industry continues to grow, understanding its health implications becomes increasingly essential. The findings from this study contribute to the ongoing discussion regarding the safety of cannabis consumption and its potential effects on cardiovascular health.
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