Observational studies have reported a possible link between cannabis use and adverse atherosclerotic cardiovascular outcomes. While several underlying mechanisms have been proposed to explain the link, how exactly the two may be related remains unclear.
"Cardiovascular-related death is the leading cause of mortality, and cannabis use may be an underrecognized risk factor contributing to preventable deaths," wrote the researchers in their study.
In their study, the researchers explored the link between ever use of cannabis and cardiovascular outcomes, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and a combined measure of any adverse cardiovascular events. To do so, they analyzed data from 17 studies involving over 1.9 million individuals aged between 18 and 74 years old. Participants were followed for an average of 8.5 years.
Ultimately, they found a statistically significant link between ever use of cannabis and the composite of any adverse cardiovascular events, which, they noted, indicates that cannabis might contribute to overall cardiovascular risk. They found no link, however, between cannabis use and the risk of myocardial infarction or stroke when compared to nonusers.
Limitations to the study include variability in study design, population characteristics, and modes of cannabis consumption. The inclusion of both medical cannabis use and cannabis use disorder may also affect outcomes.
“Cannabis use may pose a risk for cardiovascular disease, including an increased likelihood of premature cardiovascular conditions. Further research is essential to validate these findings and deepen our understanding of the associated risks,” wrote the researchers in their study.
“With rising trends in medical cannabis use and cannabis use disorder across age demographics, heightened risk awareness and informed decision-making regarding cannabis consumption are critical priorities in healthcare and public health initiatives,” they added.
Sources: Disease-a-Month
