A recent study highlights a serious concern for young adults who use cannabis: an increased risk of heart attacks.
Researchers from Unity Health Toronto found that adults under 45 who used cannabis were three times more likely to have experienced a heart attack compared to non-users.
The risk was even greater for those who used cannabis frequently.
The study analyzed data from over 33,000 adults aged 18 to 44, of whom 17% reported using cannabis in the past 30 days.
Among these cannabis users, 1.3% had suffered a heart attack, compared to only 0.8% of non-users. While these percentages may seem small, the difference highlights a concerning trend.
The researchers also noted that cannabis users were more likely to engage in other behaviors that could contribute to heart problems, such as smoking cigarettes, vaping, and heavy drinking. These factors may play a role in the increased risk observed in cannabis users.
However, the study adds to growing evidence suggesting that cannabis itself could directly affect heart health.
As cannabis use becomes more common, especially among young adults in North America due to legalization and decriminalization, understanding its health impacts is critical. Cannabis is often seen as a natural or harmless substance, but its potential effects on the heart remain poorly understood.
Another study from UC Riverside supports these findings.
Presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions conference, this research revealed that more people under 50 diagnosed with cannabis use disorder—a condition involving chronic, excessive cannabis use—are being hospitalized for heart attacks.
The trend has been increasing steadily, especially among men, African Americans, and young adults aged 18 to 34.
This study examined over 800,000 hospital records of people aged 18 to 49 who had been hospitalized for heart attacks. It found that 4.1% of these patients had cannabis use disorder, a figure that nearly tripled from 2.4% in 2007 to 6.7% in 2018.
Among young adults aged 18 to 34, the increase was even more striking, rising from 7.3% in 2007 to 20.2% in 2018. African Americans showed the largest jump, with the percentage growing from 15.8% to 35.2% during the same period.
Cannabis use disorder, characterized by dependence, difficulty controlling use, and social or functional impairment, has been linked to heart health risks. The increase in hospitalizations for heart attacks in this group raises concerns about the broader impact of cannabis legalization.
While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, some researchers believe that cannabis may affect the cardiovascular system by increasing heart rate, raising blood pressure, and causing inflammation in blood vessels.
These effects can strain the heart and potentially trigger a heart attack, particularly in people with underlying conditions or other risk factors.
The message from both studies is clear: cannabis use is not risk-free, especially for young adults. Just because it is natural or legal does not mean it is completely safe.
People who use cannabis should be aware of the potential impact on their heart health and discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider. Reducing other risk factors, like smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise, can also help lower the chances of heart problems.
As cannabis use continues to rise, especially among younger populations, these findings serve as an important reminder to approach it with caution. Understanding the potential risks and making informed choices can help protect your heart health.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about how vitamin D influences cholesterol levels, and what we know about egg intake and heart disease.
For more health information, please see recent studies about best supplements for heart disease prevention, and wild blueberries can benefit your heart and brain.
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