Cannabis Use May Double Risk of Cardiovascular Death, Experts Warn
As cannabis use becomes more common globally, new research reveals concerning health risks associated with frequent consumption. A recent scientific analysis published in the journal Heart shows that regular cannabis users may face significantly higher risks of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, heart attacks, and even premature death.
What the Research Says
The analysis reviewed 24 studies conducted between 2016 and 2023, encompassing data from over 200 million individuals. The findings revealed that cannabis users have:
- A 100% higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease
- A 29% increased risk of acute coronary syndrome
- A 20% higher likelihood of experiencing a stroke
Most participants were aged 19 to 59, with cannabis use more frequent among males and younger adults. The researchers noted that the dangers are especially relevant now, as cannabis potency continues to rise and its use becomes increasingly normalized due to legalization.
Calls for Regulation Similar to Tobacco
In an editorial accompanying the study, health experts Stanton Glantz, PhD, and Lynn Silver, MD, argued that cannabis should be regulated similarly to tobacco—not criminalized, but heavily discouraged due to its health risks.
“Cannabis should be treated like tobacco, with public education and protection from secondhand exposure,” they wrote, emphasizing the need for policy reform to address growing public misconceptions about the drug’s safety.
Medical Experts Respond
Robert Page II, PharmD, a cardiovascular pharmacology expert from the University of Colorado, noted that the findings reinforce earlier warnings from the American Heart Association.
“If we ignore these warning signs, we risk repeating the deadly public health mistakes made with tobacco,” Page told Healthline.
How Cannabis Affects Heart Health
Cannabis can impact the cardiovascular system in multiple ways. Some risks identified in recent studies include:
- Increased risk of endothelial dysfunction (non-obstructive coronary artery disease)
- Greater likelihood of heart arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation
- Elevated risk of heart attacks in younger users
Health experts stress that both smoking and ingesting cannabis can pose cardiovascular risks. Smoking introduces harmful chemicals similar to those in tobacco smoke, while ingestion may lead to higher systemic absorption of THC, the main psychoactive compound.
Frequency and Dosage Matter
Ziva Cooper, director of the UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, emphasized that how often a person uses cannabis and the dose consumed can greatly influence its effects.
She also warned of emerging risks like cannabis use disorder, which affects nearly 30% of users and can impair cognitive functions and daily performance.
What Users Should Know
Despite reports of cannabis benefits—such as pain relief and reduced anxiety—medical professionals urge users to consult with doctors before starting cannabis use. It may interact with medications and increase health risks, particularly for older adults and people with pre-existing heart conditions.
“Any form of cannabis involves some degree of health risk,” said Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a California-based cardiologist. “People must weigh the potential harm, especially those with cardiovascular risk factors.”
Conclusion
As cannabis use becomes more widespread, understanding its full health impact is essential. While it may offer therapeutic benefits in specific cases, its potential to double the risk of cardiovascular death cannot be ignored. Patients and healthcare providers must engage in informed discussions to navigate safe usage and minimize health dangers.
Source: Adapted and summarized from multiple Healthline reports and scientific publications
