New Study Links Marijuana Use to Increased Heart Attack and Stroke Dangers
03/08/2024
Recent research has shed light on the potential risks associated with marijuana use and its impact on heart health. A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has found that smoking, vaping, or consuming marijuana is linked to a significantly higher risk of heart attack and stroke, even in individuals without existing heart conditions or a history of tobacco use.
The study analyzed data from 430,000 adults, collected between 2016 and 2020, and found that both daily and non-daily users of marijuana had an increased risk of heart attack and stroke compared to nonusers. The risk of stroke rose by 42% and the risk of heart attack by 25% for daily users, with the risk increasing as the number of days of use increased.
These findings are consistent with previous research, which has shown that daily marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. A February 2023 study found that daily marijuana use can increase the risk of coronary artery disease by one-third, while studies published in November 2023 showed that older adults who use marijuana but do not smoke tobacco are at higher risk of heart attack and stroke when hospitalized.
The American Heart Association advises against smoking or vaping any substance, including marijuana, due to the potential harm to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Smoking marijuana has been found to increase concentrations of blood carboxyhemoglobin (carbon monoxide) and tar, both of which have been linked to heart muscle disease, chest pain, heart rhythm disturbances, heart attacks, and other serious conditions.
As marijuana use becomes more widespread, particularly among younger and older adults, the implications of these studies are significant for population health. The evidence suggests that cannabis use and cardiovascular disease may be a potentially hazardous combination, and it is important for practitioners to be aware of these risks and to educate their patients about the potential dangers of marijuana use.
Reference
The study analyzed data from 430,000 adults, collected between 2016 and 2020, and found that both daily and non-daily users of marijuana had an increased risk of heart attack and stroke compared to nonusers. The risk of stroke rose by 42% and the risk of heart attack by 25% for daily users, with the risk increasing as the number of days of use increased.
These findings are consistent with previous research, which has shown that daily marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. A February 2023 study found that daily marijuana use can increase the risk of coronary artery disease by one-third, while studies published in November 2023 showed that older adults who use marijuana but do not smoke tobacco are at higher risk of heart attack and stroke when hospitalized.
The American Heart Association advises against smoking or vaping any substance, including marijuana, due to the potential harm to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Smoking marijuana has been found to increase concentrations of blood carboxyhemoglobin (carbon monoxide) and tar, both of which have been linked to heart muscle disease, chest pain, heart rhythm disturbances, heart attacks, and other serious conditions.
As marijuana use becomes more widespread, particularly among younger and older adults, the implications of these studies are significant for population health. The evidence suggests that cannabis use and cardiovascular disease may be a potentially hazardous combination, and it is important for practitioners to be aware of these risks and to educate their patients about the potential dangers of marijuana use.
Reference
