A recent study from Georgia State University has suggested that marijuana use could increase the risk of death from hypertension, also known as high blood pressure.
Hypertension, a widespread health issue, occurs when the force of blood against artery walls remains consistently high over time.
If left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease and stroke.
Understanding Blood Pressure Measurements
Blood pressure is usually measured as two numbers, with 120/80 mmHg generally considered to be within the normal range.
The first number, systolic pressure, represents the force on artery walls when the heart beats, and the second number, diastolic pressure, represents the pressure between beats.
Hypertension is typically diagnosed when blood pressure readings persistently exceed 130/80 mmHg.
The Connection: Marijuana and Hypertension Risk
In this recent research, the scientists found a potential connection between marijuana use and an increased risk of death from hypertension.
The participants were all aged 20 years and older, and those who reported any past marijuana use were classified as marijuana users.
The findings were striking: marijuana users had a risk of dying from hypertension that was 3.42 times higher than non-users.
Furthermore, the study found that the longer the duration of marijuana use, the higher the risk of death from high blood pressure.
Marijuana can affect the cardiovascular system in several ways. It can increase heart rate and blood pressure, and it can also elevate the body’s oxygen demand.
Some individuals have even reported experiencing chest pain and heart attacks after using marijuana.
Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that the risk of heart problems associated with marijuana use might even be higher than the risk associated with smoking cigarettes.
A Call for Greater Caution and Awareness
Led by Barbara A Yankey and published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, this study suggests a need for heightened caution and awareness regarding the potential cardiovascular risks associated with marijuana use.
While more research is certainly needed, these findings highlight the importance of discussing any substance use with healthcare providers, particularly for individuals who have hypertension or other cardiovascular risk factors.
The study offers valuable insights into the potential hazards associated with marijuana use, reminding us that its impact extends beyond its widely acknowledged psychological effects.
If you care about high blood pressure, please read studies about how fasting may help reverse high blood pressure naturally, and this diet could help reduce high blood pressure.
For more information about blood pressure, please see recent studies about why people with high blood pressure more likely to have severe COVID-19, and results showing an important but ignored cause of high blood pressure.
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