A recent study has challenged the long-held assumption that marijuana is a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, followed 55 participants who used cannabis regularly for at least a year and found that smoking marijuana or taking edibles containing THC reduced blood vessel function by roughly half compared to non-users.
The study, led by Dr. Leila Mohammadi, found that marijuana smokers had distinct changes in their blood serum that were harmful to cells lining blood vessels, while edible users did not display the same harmful shift. The researchers suggest that inhaling cannabis smoke triggers certain biochemical pathways that are not activated by ingesting THC.
The findings have implications for cardiovascular health, as reduced blood vessel function can increase the risk of heart attacks and hypertension. Experts warn that both smoking and edible use of marijuana may carry cardiovascular risks, and more research is needed to understand how different routes of use impact the cardiovascular system.
While some people view edibles as a safer alternative to smoking, the study’s results suggest that avoiding smoke does not necessarily mean avoiding all serious health risks. Medical professionals recommend regular check-ups for individuals with a family history of heart disease, and caution suggests waiting until more data is available on dosage levels and individual differences before making any conclusions.
The study, published in JAMA Cardiology, highlights the need for further research into the effects of marijuana on cardiovascular health and encourages experts to explore whether occasional use carries the same risk as chronic use.
Source: https://www.earth.com/news/cannabis-use-in-any-form-directly-linked-to-significant-risk-of-heart-damage