Marijuana use increases the risk of heart failure and stroke, studies say

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• Nov 8, 2023 | Dhupali Das

These findings emphasize the importance of considering the potential risks associated with marijuana use, especially for individuals with existing cardiovascular risk factors...

Digital Desk: Marijuana, a widely used recreational drug, has long been a subject of debate regarding its potential health risks. Recent studies presented at the American Heart Association's 2023 Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia shed light on the relationship between marijuana use and cardiovascular health, revealing alarming findings. According to the research, regular marijuana use may significantly increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure, especially among older individuals with underlying health conditions.

The first study, conducted over four years, tracked 156,999 participants who did not have a history of heart failure at the beginning of the research. Among these participants, 2,958 individuals developed heart failure during the study. The study uncovered a 34% higher chance of developing heart failure in those who used marijuana daily when compared to those who never used the drug. Surprisingly, this elevated risk was consistent across different age groups, genders, and smoking histories.

Dr. Yakubu Bene-Alhasan, a resident physician at MedStar Health in Baltimore and lead author of the first study, suggests that daily marijuana use might contribute to heart failure through the development of coronary artery disease. Prior research has already indicated connections between marijuana use and cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation.

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In the second study, researchers examined 28,535 marijuana users who had additional cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. The study focused on adults aged 65 and older, excluding tobacco users, as the combination of tobacco and marijuana use is relatively common.

The results were concerning, with 20% of marijuana users experiencing major heart or brain events, such as heart attacks or strokes, during their hospitalizations. Additionally, 13.9% had significant adverse heart and brain events, which included fatalities or severe complications. The study further revealed that marijuana users with underlying cardiovascular risk factors were more likely to suffer heart attacks than non-users, with rates of 7.6% versus 6%, respectively.

Dr. Avilash Mondal, a resident physician at Nazareth Hospital in Philadelphia and lead author of the second study, highlighted the uniqueness of their research. Unlike previous studies, their research specifically excluded tobacco users and focused on the impact of cannabis use on cardiovascular outcomes.

The American Heart Association's studies are not the only ones linking marijuana use to cardiovascular problems. A 2023 study by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that daily marijuana use can increase the risk of coronary artery disease by one-third when compared to non-users.

These findings emphasize the importance of considering the potential risks associated with marijuana use, especially for individuals with existing cardiovascular risk factors. As the debate over the drug's legal status and health implications continues, these studies provide valuable insights into the potential heart-related consequences of regular marijuana use, raising concerns that call for further research and public awareness.