A recent study involving over 150,000 adults in the U.S. reveals a concerning association between daily marijuana use and an increased risk of developing heart failure.
This research, part of the “All of Us” Research Program, sheds light on the potential cardiovascular risks associated with marijuana consumption.
Understanding the Connection
The study, led by Dr. Yakubu Bene-Alhasan from Medstar Health in Baltimore, followed 156,999 individuals who were initially free from heart failure.
Participants provided details about their marijuana usage through a survey and were monitored for an average of 45 months.
The findings highlight a significant relationship between daily marijuana use and heart failure, with a 34% increased risk compared to non-users. This risk persisted regardless of age, gender, or smoking history.
Marijuana and Heart Health
Prior studies have hinted at the connection between marijuana use and various cardiovascular issues, including coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.
The new research adds to this growing body of evidence, suggesting that regular marijuana use can be a contributing factor to heart-related problems.
Pathways to Heart Failure
An intriguing aspect of the study is the role of coronary artery disease as a possible pathway through which marijuana use leads to heart failure. When researchers factored in coronary artery disease, the risk of heart failure among marijuana users dropped slightly but remained significant.
Implications for Public Health
Dr. Bene-Alhasan emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand marijuana’s health implications, especially regarding cardiovascular risk.
The study’s outcomes could be instrumental in shaping policy decisions, educating patients, and guiding healthcare professionals.
The study’s definition of marijuana use encompassed both recreational and medical usage, with a focus on usage beyond prescribed amounts for medical users.
The majority of participants were middle-aged, and while the racial composition was diverse, the study did not specify the method of marijuana ingestion, which could potentially influence cardiovascular outcomes.
In summary, this study provides crucial insights into the relationship between daily marijuana use and heart failure, underscoring the need for public awareness and further research in this area.
If you care about cannabis, please read studies that what you need to know about cannabis and heart attack, and CBD from cannabis may help inhibit COVID-19 infection.
For more information about health, please see recent studies that medical cannabis could help reduce depression, improve quality of life, and results showing this stuff in cannabis may protect aging brain, treat Alzheimer’s.
Copyright © 2023 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
