A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has shed light on the potential risks of frequent cannabis use on cardiovascular health. The study, which analyzed survey data from 430,000 adults in the U.S., found a significant link between cannabis consumption and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, independent of tobacco use.
Participants in the study reported consuming cannabis through smoking, eating, or vaporizing, with smoking being the most common method. The increase in combined risk for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke due to cannabis use was comparable to the risk seen in adults who had never used e-cigarettes but did use cannabis.
Despite the federal illegality of cannabis, 24 states and Washington, D.C. have legalized recreational use, leading to a rise in cannabis consumption. Daily and non-daily cannabis users were found to have higher odds of heart attack compared to non-users, with daily users showing a 25% higher risk. Additionally, daily cannabis users had a 42% higher risk of stroke compared to non-users, highlighting the potential cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis use.
The study authors emphasize the need for further research on the association between cannabis use and cardiovascular outcomes, particularly in prospective cohort studies. They also urge healthcare practitioners to assess cannabis use in patient encounters in order to address potential cardiovascular risks and explore ways to mitigate those risks.
Survey participants in the study were aged 18-74, with over half identifying as female and the majority reporting smoking as their preferred form of cannabis consumption. The findings underscore the importance of considering the potential cardiovascular implications of cannabis use, especially as cannabis use continues to rise while tobacco use declines.
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