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Cardiovascular risks
Research from the University of California, San Francisco, found a link between regular marijuana use, whether smoked or ingested, and impaired vascular function similar to that observed in tobacco smokers, highlighting potential health risks that have previously been underestimated by the public.
Comparisons to tobacco
The study challenges the long-standing belief that marijuana is a safer alternative to tobacco, as cannabis users showed vascular impairment comparable to tobacco smokers, according to study findings and expert commentary.
Public health implications
Given the growing legalization and acceptance of marijuana, these findings urge calls for increased public awareness and further research to understand the potential long-term health effects, as emphasized by medical professionals and study authors.
Synthesized coverage insights across 26 media outlets
Behind the numbers
The study cited found a 42% reduction in vascular function in marijuana smokers and 56% in THC-edible users compared to nonusers. Additional data suggest that daily marijuana use is associated with a 25% higher risk of heart attack and a 42% higher risk of stroke, showing potential health impacts for regular consumers of THC products.
Community reaction
Many consumers seek THC-infused products, often as alternatives to alcohol, with demand spanning age groups from the twenties to sixties. Retailers and brewery owners report rising popularity and expanding product lines, while medical professionals urge consumers to inform themselves about the risks and not assume THC drinks and alcohol have the same health profile.
Debunking
The researchers clarify that while their study found reduced vascular function among regular cannabis users, the study only demonstrates an association. According to lead author Matthew Springer, “We can only state that the cannabis users have poor vascular function, not that cannabis use causes poor vascular function,” emphasizing that causation has not been established.
“}]] A new study found a link between marijuana use and a higher risk for cardiovascular disease comparable to the impacts of smoking cigarettes. Read More
