A large new study involving 200 million people mostly aged 19 to 59 has found that using marijuana doubles the risk of dying from heart disease. The research also showed that cannabis users have a 29% higher chance of having a heart attack and a 20% higher chance of suffering a stroke compared to nonusers.
The study, published in the journal Heart, highlighted that many young patients hospitalized for heart problems had no history of cardiovascular disease or risk factors like tobacco use. This suggests marijuana itself may be a major cause of these issues.
Experts warn that the rising potency of marijuana today makes these health risks even more serious. Concentrated cannabis products now contain much higher levels of THC than in the past, increasing the chance of addiction and other health problems.
Smoking cannabis can harm blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots, similar to tobacco smoke. Even edibles containing THC have been linked to early signs of heart disease.
Doctors say it is important for health professionals to screen for cannabis use and educate patients about its dangers, just as they do for tobacco. They also call for stronger health warnings on cannabis products.
People with existing heart disease or risk factors should be especially careful about using marijuana, as it may raise their chances of heart attacks and strokes.
This study challenges the common belief that cannabis is safe for the heart and urges more awareness of its potential harms.
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