A recent analysis published in the journal Heart reveals that cannabis use may significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart-related deaths. Researchers reviewed 24 studies conducted between January 2016 and January 2023, encompassing around 200 million participants, predominantly aged 19 to 59. The findings indicate that individuals who frequently use cannabis are twice as likely to die from cardiovascular disease compared to non-users.
The analysis highlighted a 29% higher risk of acute coronary syndrome and a 20% increased risk of stroke associated with cannabis consumption. Despite the study’s observational nature and some limitations regarding data accuracy, experts stress the importance of these findings, especially in light of the increasing legalization and acceptance of cannabis.
In an editorial accompanying the study, health experts Stanton Glantz, PhD, and Lynn Silver, MD, argue that the health risks linked to cannabis use warrant regulation similar to that of tobacco products. They caution that many users mistakenly believe cannabis is entirely safe due to its legalization, overlooking the growing evidence of its health risks.
Robert Page II, PharmD, a professor at the University of Colorado, emphasized the need to consider cannabis as a potential risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). He referenced past studies that took years to recognize the severe cardiovascular impacts of cigarette smoking and warned against repeating this oversight with cannabis.
The analysis comes on the heels of other studies indicating that chronic cannabis use is associated with conditions such as endothelial dysfunction and a sixfold increased risk of heart attacks compared to non-users. Another study from earlier this year noted a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation among those using cannabis for chronic pain.
Experts point out that cannabis’s potency has increased over the years, although the analysis did not distinguish between the health risks of smoking cannabis versus ingesting it. Health professionals like Cheng-Han Chen, MD, suggest that both methods carry risks, with smoking introducing harmful carcinogens similar to those in tobacco.
Ziva Cooper, director of the UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, highlighted the significance of dosage and frequency of cannabis use, noting emerging mental health risks, including cannabis use disorder, which affects around 30% of users. She also mentioned that cannabis can impair driving and cognitive functions, impacting daily life.
While some advocates like Paul Armentano from NORML acknowledge the health risks associated with cannabis, they also cite studies suggesting no increase or even a decrease in cardiovascular disease risk. He argues that the relationship between cannabis smoke and cardiovascular health is not fully understood, and vaporization may mitigate some risks associated with smoking.
As cannabis use continues to rise, especially among younger populations, experts urge individuals to consult healthcare providers regarding their cannabis habits. Page advises that cannabis use be factored into cardiovascular risk assessments, similar to tobacco use. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the potential health issues related to cannabis before making usage decisions.
Healthcare professionals stress the need for informed discussions about cannabis, especially for older adults who may face interactions with other medications. Cooper warns that the diversity of chemical components in cannabis means effects can vary widely, making it crucial for users to understand what products they consume.
In light of this new research, health experts call for increased education on the risks of cannabis use, particularly as public policy shifts toward legalization. They maintain that while cannabis may offer benefits for some, the associated risks should not be overlooked or minimized.
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