According to two new non-published studies presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia, older adults who use marijuana but do not smoke tobacco are at a higher risk of heart attack and stroke when hospitalized. Additionally, people who use marijuana daily have a 34% higher chance of developing heart failure. Robert Page II, the chair of the volunteer writing group for the American Heart Association Scientific Statement, stated that observational data strongly suggests that marijuana use, whether recreational or medicinal, may lead to cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association recommends refraining from smoking or vaping any substance, including cannabis, due to potential harm to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
Researchers have found that smoking or inhaling cannabis can increase concentrations of harmful substances in the blood, such as carbon monoxide and tar, which are similar to the effects of inhaling tobacco. These substances have been linked to various heart conditions, including heart muscle disease, chest pain, heart rhythm disturbances, and heart attacks. It is important to treat marijuana use as a risk factor for heart disease and stroke and understand the potential dangers.
Marijuana use among older adults is on the rise. Studies have shown that the number of seniors over the age of 65 who smoke marijuana or use edibles has doubled between 2015 and 2018. Binge drinking and marijuana use among this age group have also increased by 450% between 2015 and 2019.
Nearly three out of every 10 marijuana users develop a dependence on weed, known as cannabis use disorder. Dependence is characterized by food cravings, lack of appetite, irritability, restlessness, and difficulty with mood and sleep after quitting. Chronic conditions that often occur in older adults can exacerbate the impact of marijuana use.
One study examined hospital records for adults over 65 with cannabis use disorder who did not smoke tobacco. The researchers found that these individuals had a 20% higher risk of experiencing a major heart or brain event while hospitalized, compared to older adults who did not use marijuana. High blood pressure and high cholesterol were key predictors of adverse heart and brain events in marijuana users.
Another study followed nearly 160,000 adults for about four years to determine if cannabis use impacted their risk of developing heart failure. The researchers found that daily marijuana use was associated with a 34% increased risk of heart failure, compared to non-users. Age, sex, and smoking history did not affect the risk.
Earlier this year, a study also found that daily marijuana use can increase the risk of coronary artery disease by one third. Coronary artery disease is caused by plaque buildup in the arteries supplying blood to the heart and is the most common type of heart disease.
The researchers urge further study into the health implications of marijuana use, particularly its impact on cardiovascular risk. It is important for individuals to understand the risks involved and treat marijuana use as they would any other risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Consider signing up for CNN’s Stress, But Less newsletter, which provides a six-part mindfulness guide to help reduce stress and learn how to manage it effectively.
