Latest news on cannabis and cardiovascular health
Recent research has brought the potential health risks of cannabis use into sharp focus, highlighting its significant impact on cardiovascular health. A major meta-analysis published in the Heart journal, conducted by French researchers, has found that cannabis use is associated with a significantly increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). This includes a 29% higher chance of heart attack, a 20% increased risk of stroke, and twice the likelihood of cardiovascular death.
The study, which analyzed data from over 400 million patients in 24 previous studies, including cross-sectional and cohort studies, found that the risk is not uniform across all users. Weekly cannabis users faced a higher risk, and the association was particularly strong among younger individuals aged 15 to 22 and in patients who used cannabis more than once a week. These findings raise important concerns, especially as the use of cannabis is becoming more widespread, particularly among seniors, who are reportedly using it at higher rates despite potential health risks.
While the study acknowledges limitations in its data — including underreporting of cannabis exposure and potential biases in some studies — the authors emphasize the importance of further research and cautious use. The study also highlights the need to investigate cannabis use in patients with serious cardiovascular disorders, as these findings could inform future medical guidelines and public health measures. Despite the study’s limitations, the researchers caution against dismissing the potential risks, particularly as the use of medical marijuana continues to grow.
Experts have also raised concerns about the long-term effects of cannabis on heart and lung health. Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst at Fox News, has warned that regular cannabis use can be dangerous if not properly monitored. He likened the effects of cannabis to those of smoking cigarettes in terms of damage to the heart and lungs, and has expressed particular concern about its use among the elderly population, who may be more vulnerable to the health risks associated with cannabis.
As the debate over cannabis legalization continues, these studies add to the growing body of evidence suggesting that while it may offer medical benefits, it also carries significant health risks — particularly for the cardiovascular system. The findings may influence future public health policies and clinical guidelines, encouraging healthcare professionals to take cannabis use into account when assessing patients at risk for cardiovascular disease.