The drug has becoming increasingly commonplace over the past several years — but researchers stress the need for more caution.

An increasing number of studies are showing that marijuana may not be so harmless after all.

In two new studies, to be presented later this month at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions 2023, researchers found that regular marijuana use increased the risk of heart attack, stroke or heart failure — even after factors like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity were taken into account.

“Prior research shows links between marijuana use and cardiovascular disease like coronary artery disease, heart failure and atrial fibrillation, which is known to cause heart failure,” lead study author Yakubu Bene-Alhasan, M.D., MPH, a resident physician at Medstar Health in Baltimore, said in a statement. “Marijuana use isn’t without its health concerns, and our study provides more data linking its use to cardiovascular conditions.”

  • Ulrich_the_Old@lemmy.ca
    64·
    1 year ago

    As a person who has used pretty much daily since 1966 and who knows many others who have done the same it has not been my experience that people are having ANY health issues due to the use of cannabis. I spend my summers with a bunch of ancient musicians. We drink alcohol, smoke pot and play music most if not all are in good health and mentally capable. We are all in our 70s and 80s. Every year we lose someone but we have not been blaming cannabis for people dying in their 80s.

    • girlfreddy@lemmy.ca
      43·
      1 year ago

      That’s fair.

      The other side of the coin is my ex-husband who rolled 14 joints every morning to take to work … and he smoked every one of them by himself.

      There are people who are addicted, sometimes because of massive trauma they faced as a child/youth.

      It would be unethical to disregard a study that simply disagrees with your personal preference or experience.

      • Ulrich_the_Old@lemmy.ca
        11·
        1 year ago

        I do not see this as the other side of the coin. I have been using pretty much daily since 1966 except for a 3 week tolerance break once a year. I use much more than your ex and have never considered myself an addict as cannabis is not in any way addictive. I have zero trouble quitting for 3 weeks every year.