High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a widespread medical concern.
It happens when the force of blood against the artery walls remains too high over time.
A recent study from Georgia State University suggests that marijuana use may increase the risk of death from hypertension.
Understanding High Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is often measured as two numbers – 120/80 mmHg is generally considered to be within the normal range.
The first number, or systolic pressure, represents the force exerted on artery walls when the heart beats, and the second number, or diastolic pressure, represents the pressure between beats.
Hypertension is diagnosed when blood pressure readings consistently exceed 130/80 mmHg.
Untreated hypertension can lead to serious health risks, including heart disease and stroke.
Various factors contribute to high blood pressure, including age, family history, obesity, lack of physical activity, high salt diet, alcohol and tobacco use, stress, and certain medical conditions.
The Study: Marijuana Use and High Blood Pressure Risk
In their recent research, scientists from Georgia State University found a potential link between marijuana use and death from hypertension.
The research involved participants aged 20 years and above, with those reporting any past marijuana use classified as marijuana users.
Their findings were striking: marijuana users had a risk of dying from hypertension that was 3.42 times higher than non-users.
Moreover, the duration of marijuana use correlated with this risk – the longer someone used marijuana, the higher their risk of death from high blood pressure.
How Does Marijuana Affect Blood Pressure?
Marijuana can impact the cardiovascular system in several ways. It can elevate heart rate and blood pressure and increase the body’s oxygen demand.
Some individuals have even reported experiencing chest pain and heart attacks after using marijuana.
Based on their findings, the researchers concluded that the risk of heart problems from using marijuana might be even higher than the risk associated with smoking cigarettes.
A Word of Caution
This study, led by Barbara A Yankey and published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, suggests a need for greater caution and awareness about the potential cardiovascular risks associated with marijuana use.
While more research is required, these findings underline the importance of discussing any substance use with healthcare providers, especially for individuals with hypertension or other cardiovascular risk factors.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about how your eyes could help diagnose high blood pressure, and marijuana may strongly increase death risk in high blood pressure.
For more information about nutrition, please see recent studies about natural coconut sugar that could help reduce blood pressure and artery stiffness, and anti-inflammatory diet could help prevent fatty liver disease.
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