With the legalization of cannabis in many U.S. states, public perception of its safety, particularly when smoked, seems to have changed over time. But, how accurate are these perceptions?
Comparing Cannabis and Tobacco Smoke
A recent report indicated that over 44% of adults believe daily cannabis smoking is safer than daily tobacco smoking. These findings, which were published in JAMA Network Open, contrast with the scientific data available.
Dr. Beth Cohen, from the University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine, emphasized the toxins and carcinogens present in both types of smoke.
Between 2017 and 2021, the perception that cannabis smoke was safer than tobacco smoke rose from 37% to 44%. Likewise, for secondhand smoke, the perception of cannabis being safer increased from 35% to 40%.
However, Cohen stresses that all types of smoke can damage the lungs.
The harm from cigarettes isn’t solely from the chemicals they contain but also from the very act of burning a material and inhaling its smoke. This smoke can penetrate deep into our lungs.
Reasons Behind the Changing Perception
While the study didn’t explicitly ask for the reasons behind these perceptions, several factors could be influencing public opinion:
History of Research: Tobacco has been studied extensively over the years, leading to significant public health education regarding its dangers. Cannabis hasn’t received the same amount of scrutiny, largely due to federal regulations surrounding its use.
Legalization Trends: Cannabis legalization has been expanding across states, both for medical and recreational use. This contrasts with the increasing restrictions on tobacco use.
Perceived Health Benefits: Some believe there are health benefits associated with cannabis use, making its perception more favorable compared to tobacco.
The study also highlighted demographic factors. Young adults (18-29) were more likely to view cannabis as safer, while older individuals (60+) held the opposite view.
Marital status and employment status also played roles in shaping these perceptions.
What Experts Say
Dr. Albert Rizzo from the American Lung Association points out that just because cannabis is legal doesn’t mean it’s safe. The legal status has more to do with societal preferences than scientific evidence of safety.
He emphasizes the dangers of inhaling substances that cause inflammation in our airways and suggests that it may take time, as with tobacco, to fully understand the long-term health effects of smoking cannabis.
To bridge this understanding gap, public health agencies must amplify education and awareness efforts. Young people and their parents, especially, should be targeted with messages about potential risks associated with cannabis smoking.
Cohen acknowledges that while there are constraints on cannabis research, available studies show concerning effects on health.
Studies in animals have demonstrated potential cardiovascular risks from both cannabis and tobacco smoke.
Ultimately, Cohen believes that adults should have the information they need to make informed decisions about their health.
As cannabis becomes more widespread and accepted, understanding its risks is crucial for public health.
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 and treat Alzheimer’s.
The study was published in JAMA Network Open.
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