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Study Finds Cannabis Use Linked to Increased Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke
An analysis of 430,000 adults in the U.S. has revealed a concerning association between cannabis use and cardiovascular health. The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, found that individuals who used cannabis, whether through smoking, eating, or vaporizing, had a significantly higher risk of experiencing heart attacks and strokes. This risk persisted even after adjusting for other cardiovascular risk factors and tobacco use.
Rise in Cannabis Use Across the U.S.
Despite federal illegality, cannabis has been legalized in 24 states and Washington, D.C. The number of people using cannabis has also risen sharply in recent years, with 48.2 million individuals aged 12 or older reporting cannabis use at least once in 2019. This marks a significant increase from 2002, highlighting a growing trend in cannabis consumption.
Perceptions and Risks
While the harmfulness of smoking cannabis is decreasing in public perception, research has suggested a link between cannabis use and cardiovascular disease. Smoking cannabis, the most common method of consumption, poses additional risks due to the inhalation of particulate matter.
Key Findings and Implications
The study found that any form of cannabis use was independently associated with a higher risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes, including coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Daily cannabis users had a 25% higher risk of heart attack compared to non-users, and a 42% higher risk of stroke. Even among younger adults at risk for premature cardiovascular disease, cannabis use was significantly associated with a 36% higher combined risk of cardiovascular events.
Call to Action
The findings underscore the importance of assessing cannabis use in clinical practice to address potential cardiovascular risks. As cannabis use becomes more prevalent, healthcare providers need to engage in non-judgmental conversations with patients about reducing these risks. Further prospective cohort studies are necessary to fully understand the impact of cannabis on cardiovascular health.
Source
This article was sourced from the American Heart Association. For more information, you can access the original study here.
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