Recent scientific findings are prompting a closer look at the health implications of cannabis use. A new study, published on June 20, 2025, suggests that individuals who use cannabis may face twice the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, along with increased risks of other major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). What the Research Reveals A …
Recent scientific findings are prompting a closer look at the health implications of cannabis use. A new study, published on June 20, 2025, suggests that individuals who use cannabis may face twice the risk of death from cardiovascular disease, along with increased risks of other major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).
What the Research Reveals
A team of researchers from the University of Toulouse in France led a comprehensive review of 24 studies published between 2016 and 2023, encompassing approximately 200 million people. Their analysis revealed several concerning associations:
- 100% increased risk (double the risk) of cardiovascular disease mortality.
- 29% increased risk of acute coronary syndrome (reduced blood flow to the heart).
- 20% increased risk of strokes.
These findings suggest a significant link between cannabis use and serious heart-related issues. The researchers emphasize that these findings should encourage medical professionals to investigate cannabis use in patients experiencing cardiovascular disorders.
Important Considerations
While these findings are significant due to the large number of people surveyed and the use of recent data, it’s crucial to understand some limitations:
- Association, Not Cause and Effect: The study shows an association between cannabis use and heart issues, but it does not definitively prove that cannabis directly causes these problems. Other factors could be at play.
- Study Limitations: The included studies varied in how they defined cannabis use, often relied on self-reporting, and didn’t track drug use over time, which can impact the robustness of the data.
- Potential for Bias: The researchers noted a high risk of bias in many of the studies they reviewed due to their structure.
Why This Matters Now
Cannabis legalization is expanding globally, leading to increased medicinal and recreational use. The researchers note that current cannabis products often have much higher concentrations of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound, compared to those from a decade ago. This shift in potency and usage patterns makes understanding the health risks even more critical.
Beyond Heart Health
This new research builds on previous studies that have also highlighted other potential health risks associated with cannabis, including:
- An increased risk of cancer.
- Significant alterations to our DNA.
- The potential to trigger psychosis due to its impact on the brain.
What’s Next?
The scientific community agrees that further research is essential. Future studies need to explore which specific chemicals in cannabis might contribute to these health risks and how different forms of consumption (like inhalables versus edibles) might influence the outcomes.
These new findings serve as an important reminder to be mindful of potential health impacts as cannabis use continues to evolve.
Storck W, Elbaz M, Vindis C, et alCardiovascular risk associated with the use of cannabis and cannabinoids: a systematic review and meta-analysisHeart Published Online First: 17 June 2025. doi: 10.1136/heartjnl-2024-325429
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