In a groundbreaking study conducted across 27 American states and 2 territories, researchers have uncovered a concerning association between cannabis use and cardiovascular health. The study, based on data collected from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey between 2016 and 2020, analyzed the habits of over 434,000 adults aged 18 to 74.

Key findings reveal that among respondents, 4% reported daily cannabis use, while 7.1% reported nondaily use.

More importantly, the study found that daily cannabis users faced significantly higher risks of cardiovascular issues compared to non-users. Daily cannabis use was associated with a 25% increased risk of myocardial infarction, a 42% increased risk of stroke, and a staggering 28% increased risk of a composite outcome including coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, and stroke.

These risks persist among individuals who have never smoked tobacco, making cannabis use an independent risk factor of cardiovascular disease. Daily cannabis users who were nonsmokers still faced a 49% increased risk of myocardial infarction, a 116% increased risk of stroke, and a 77% increased risk of the composite outcome.

Furthermore, the study found that these concerning trends held true across demographics. Both men under 55 years old and women under 65 years old who engaged in daily cannabis use exhibited similar heightened risks for cardiovascular issues.

As debates surrounding cannabis legalization continue, this study serves as a critical reminder of the importance of considering broader health implications that cannabis may not be a healthier alternative to tobacco or alcohol, and is just as dangerous and unhealthy.

AM Jeffers et al. Association of cannabis use with cardiovascular outcomes among US adults. Journal of the American Heart Association (2024). https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.123.030178