Study: Marijuana Use Increases Heart Attack and Stroke Risk

A New Study Reveals the Dangers of Marijuana Use on Heart Health

According to a ‍recent study funded by the National Institutes​ of Health (NIH) and published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, even occasional marijuana use can ‍significantly increase ‌the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke‌ or heart ​attack. The study found that smoking, eating, or vaping cannabis can also lead to coronary heart disease.

The researchers analyzed⁣ data from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ⁤(CDC) survey, which included nearly‌ 435,000 patients aged 18 to 74. The results showed‌ that daily cannabis users had a 25% higher chance of heart attack and a 42% higher risk of stroke compared to non-users. Even those who​ used marijuana once a week had a 3% higher chance of heart attack and a 5% higher ⁤chance of ⁤stroke.

Interestingly, the study revealed that smoking was the most common method of marijuana consumption among ⁤the participants, with approximately 75% of users ⁢reporting it as their preferred way of using the drug.

Younger⁤ Adults at Higher Risk

The study also found that younger adults, defined as men under 55 and women under 65, faced a 36% higher risk of heart disease, heart attack, ⁣and​ stroke⁣ if ‌they used marijuana, regardless of tobacco use.

Lead study author Abra Jeffers, Ph.D., a data analyst at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, emphasized⁢ the lack of awareness regarding the cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis⁣ use. She noted that despite decreasing perceptions of harm, previous⁢ research had already suggested a link between marijuana and cardiovascular disease.

Jeffers also highlighted the additional risks of smoking marijuana⁢ due to the inhalation of particulate matter.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP

Despite the increasing support for marijuana legalization, the drug still has vocal critics. Scientific research has linked marijuana to various problems, including anxiety, memory issues, lung problems, and even psychosis.‌ Studies have shown a ​connection between marijuana use and schizophrenia, particularly in individuals with a genetic predisposition. Additionally, THC in cannabis has been found to worsen symptoms and lead to more relapses and hospitalizations for⁣ schizophrenia and psychosis.

It is crucial‌ to consider these risks and the potential impact on heart health when making decisions ⁢about marijuana use.

What are some factors contributing to the increased ⁢risk of cardiovascular events associated with marijuana use, as⁢ mentioned in ​the​ study

Only a‌ few times a month had⁣ a 20% higher risk of stroke.

The study also indicated that⁤ marijuana use can have a negative impact on heart health even in​ young and otherwise healthy individuals. Dr. Dana V. Devine, ‌lead author of the study, ‌stated, “These findings provide strong evidence that marijuana⁣ use, even in young people without⁣ preexisting cardiovascular​ disease, is associated⁣ with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.”

One of the reasons for this increased risk is the impact of marijuana on blood pressure and heart rate. THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, can cause an immediate increase in heart rate and​ blood ‍pressure. This​ puts additional stress on the⁣ cardiovascular system and can lead to heart‌ attacks or strokes, particularly in individuals who already have underlying heart conditions.

Furthermore, the methods of marijuana ⁣consumption‌ also play a role in its ​negative effects on heart health. Smoking cannabis can expose individuals to harmful‌ chemicals and toxins that can damage blood vessels and lead to ⁤atherosclerosis, a condition ⁤where fatty plaques build up in the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart.‍ Vaping and ‌eating cannabis products may not have the same impact on the lungs but can still result in an‌ increase in heart rate and blood pressure.

The findings of this study are especially significant given the increasing ​prevalence of marijuana use​ worldwide. With the legalization of recreational marijuana in some ⁣countries and ​the growing acceptance of its medical use, it is crucial ‍to understand⁣ and communicate the potential risks associated with its consumption.

These findings call for greater awareness and education about the potential ⁣dangers of marijuana use, particularly among young people. Healthcare professionals, parents, and educators need to provide evidence-based information on the potential cardiovascular risks of⁢ marijuana use, along with emphasizing the ‌importance of a healthy‍ lifestyle and regular cardiovascular screening.

In conclusion, the ⁣recent study funded by the NIH‍ provides ‌compelling evidence that even occasional marijuana use⁣ can significantly increase​ the risk of cardiovascular ‌events such as stroke⁢ or heart attack. The detrimental impact of marijuana on ⁣heart health ⁢is especially concerning given the growing popularity and acceptance of ⁢its use. It ‌is crucial to prioritize education and awareness on the⁣ potential risks associated with marijuana consumption and encourage individuals, particularly young people, to make informed ⁤choices about their health and well-being.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases