Study finds cannabis users have elevated levels of toxic heavy metals in their bodies.
A New Study Reveals Higher Levels of Toxic Metals in Marijuana Users
A groundbreaking study published in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal on Aug. 30 has uncovered a startling discovery: marijuana users have significantly higher levels of lead and cadmium in their blood and urine compared to non-users.
The study, which compared cannabis users exclusively to individuals who abstained from both marijuana and tobacco, found that the heavy metal levels in marijuana users were statistically higher. This finding supports the hypothesis that marijuana, known for its ability to scavenge metals, is a source of cadmium and lead exposure.
“Our results therefore indicate marijuana is a source of cadmium and lead exposure,” said Katelyn McGraw, a postdoctoral researcher at Columbia Public Health’s Department of Environmental Health Sciences.
Study Details and Findings
The researchers analyzed data collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2005 and 2018. The study included 7,254 adult participants and measured the levels of five metals in their blood and 16 metals in their urine.
The participants were divided into four groups: non-marijuana/non-tobacco users, exclusive marijuana users, exclusive tobacco users, and dual marijuana/tobacco users. Among the exclusive marijuana users, the study found a 27% increase in lead levels and a 22% increase in cadmium levels compared to non-users.
“Both cadmium and lead stay in your body for quite a long time,” explained Tiffany Sanchez, lead author of the study. “When you’re looking at urinary cadmium, that’s a reflection of total body burden, how much you have taken in over a long period of chronic exposure.”
The Dangers of Cadmium and Lead
Cadmium, a naturally occurring element found in various products, including batteries and plastics, can cause stomach issues and lung damage when consumed or inhaled at high levels. It is also considered a cancer-causing agent. Lead, although its exposure has decreased, still poses serious health risks. It can harm organs and tissues, impair reproductive health, and cause brain damage and learning difficulties.
Given the increasing number of cannabis users, the study’s authors emphasize the need for further research on cannabis use and contaminants, particularly metals, to address public health concerns.
The Rise of Cannabis Consumption
In recent years, marijuana consumption has surged across the United States. Approximately 48 million Americans, or 18% of the population, reported using marijuana at least once in the last year. With recreational use legalized in 21 states and medicinal use permitted in 38 states, cannabis has become the third most commonly used drug in the world.
However, despite its widespread acceptance, marijuana remains illegal in some states and at the federal level. As the number of cannabis users continues to grow, it is crucial to prioritize research and address potential health risks associated with its use.
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