Recent research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology highlights concerning cardiovascular risks associated with marijuana use among young people.
The study discovered that individuals under 50 who consume marijuana are approximately 6.2 times more likely to suffer a heart attack compared to non-users. Furthermore, young cannabis users are also 4.3 times more likely to experience ischemic strokes and twice as likely to encounter heart failure.
Led by Ahmed Mahmoud from Boston University, researchers examined over 4.6 million individuals under 50 without prior cardiovascular issues or tobacco use. Among these participants, approximately 93,000 used marijuana, while the remaining 4.5 million did not.
Despite these significant findings, Mahmoud emphasized that comprehensive research on marijuana’s cardiovascular effects remains limited, advising caution and moderated usage until more conclusive data emerges. Scientists believe marijuana increases heart rate and blood pressure, potentially damaging coronary artery linings and raising the likelihood of blood clot formation, resulting in ischemic events like heart attacks.
Supporting this, Stanton Glantz, former professor at UCSF, notes marijuana smoke may impact cardiovascular health similarly to tobacco smoke, potentially contributing to artery damage and plaque build-up.
The findings complement previous research, including a 2024 study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, which also linked inhaled marijuana consumption to increased cardiovascular risks.
This emerging research emphasizes the urgent need for greater public awareness and deeper scientific inquiry into marijuana’s effects on heart health, especially amid increasing legalization and use among younger populations.
