Cannabis smoking linked to 34% higher heart attack risks. Recent studies presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia have shed light on potential risks associated with marijuana use among older adults.
The research findings suggest a significant increase in the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure in individuals using marijuana, even if they do not smoke tobacco.
One study revealed that older adults who exclusively used marijuana, without smoking tobacco, faced a higher likelihood of heart attack and stroke during hospitalization.
Additionally, those who used marijuana daily had a startling 34% higher chance of developing heart failure.
These findings echo the 2020 American Heart Association Scientific Statement, which underscored the cardiovascular risks linked to marijuana use.
Robert Page II, chair of the volunteer writing group for the 2020 American Heart Association Scientific Statement, emphasized that observational data strongly support the notion that marijuana use, whether recreational or medicinal, might contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.
He highlighted that marijuana use can elevate levels of carbon monoxide and tar in the bloodstream, akin to smoking tobacco, both of which have established links to heart problems.
The studies also pointed to a concerning trend: a rise in cannabis use among older adults, with a notable increase reported between 2015 and 2018.
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As Cannabis smoking linked to 34% higher heart attack risks, another study highlighted a sharp 450% uptick in past-month binge drinking and cannabis use among individuals aged over 65 between 2015 and 2019.
Alarmingly, close to 30% of marijuana users develop marijuana use disorder, characterized by cravings, irritability, restlessness, and difficulties with mood and sleep when attempting to quit.
Crucially, individuals with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol appear to be more susceptible to the adverse effects of marijuana use on cardiovascular health.
High blood pressure and high cholesterol were identified as significant predictors of major adverse heart and brain events in marijuana users.
The studies indicated that while acute marijuana use could lead to a temporary drop in blood pressure, chronic, long-term use was associated with an increase in blood pressure, a known risk factor for various cardiovascular conditions.
In a separate study tracking nearly 160,000 adults over approximately four years, daily cannabis use was linked to a 34% increased risk of heart failure compared to those who reported never using cannabis.
These findings add to the growing body of research highlighting potential health implications, particularly concerning cardiovascular risks, associated with marijuana use.
