Regular marijuana use can significantly raise the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke, according to two new studies set to be presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023. One study found that daily marijuana users have a 34% higher risk of heart failure compared to non-users. Researchers from Medstar Health analyzed health data from 157,000 participants in the National Institutes of Health’s “𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘜𝘴” research program over nearly four years and concluded that coronary artery disease, the buildup of plaque in the arteries, is behind this increased risk.
FACTS
- Researchers analyzed data from over 28,000 people aged 65 and older with health conditions that increased their risk for heart problems, who were marijuana users but not tobacco users.
- Results showed at least a 20% increased risk of heart attack, stroke, cardiac arrest, or arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).
- Smoking and inhaling cannabis increases concentrations of carboxyhemoglobin (carbon monoxide) and tar, similar to the effects of smoking tobacco, both linked to serious heart conditions.
- Risks associated with cannabis use include heart muscle disease, chest pain, heart rhythm disturbances, and heart attacks.
- The cardiovascular risks of cannabis use are becoming clearer, as stated by Robert L. Page II, chair of the volunteer writing group for the 2020 American Heart Association Scientific Statement on marijuana and cardiovascular health.
As research continues to shed light on the cardiovascular risks associated with marijuana use, particularly in older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions, it’s becoming increasingly clear that cannabis can have serious impacts on heart health. The latest findings emphasize the importance of monitoring and understanding these risks, as cannabis use may raise the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related conditions. Both healthcare professionals and the public should approach marijuana use with caution, taking into account the growing evidence of its potential harm to the cardiovascular system.
