• Many people use it for recreational or medicinal purposes, believing it harmless or beneficial. 

Marijuana, or cannabis, is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances in the world.

Many people use it for recreational or medicinal purposes, believing it harmless or beneficial.

However, recent research suggests that marijuana use may have severe consequences for the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

According to a large study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, using cannabis – either by smoking, eating or vaping it – may raise the risk for heart attacks and strokes, regardless of other risk factors or tobacco use.

The study, which analyzed data from nearly 435,000 American adults, found that daily use of cannabis was associated with a 25% increased likelihood of heart attack and a 42% increased likelihood of stroke when compared to non-use of the drug.

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Less frequent use was also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

The researchers note that the exact mechanisms linking cannabis to heart disease are unclear, but they suggest that several factors may play a role.

One of them is the presence of toxins in cannabis smoke, which are similar to those found in tobacco smoke and may damage the blood vessels and the heart.

Another factor is the effect of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, on the endocannabinoid receptors, which are widely distributed in the cardiovascular tissues and may influence blood pressure, heart rate, inflammation and blood clotting.

The study adds to the growing evidence that cannabis use is not as harmless as many people think.

Previous studies have also linked cannabis use to impaired brain development, lung damage, and certain types of stroke.

For example, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that marijuana users were more likely to have strokes caused by arterial stenosis, a narrowing of the arteries that reduces blood flow to the brain.

The researchers urge healthcare providers and policymakers to be aware of the potential cardiovascular risks of cannabis use and to educate the public about them.

They also call for more research to understand the long-term effects of cannabis use on the cardiovascular system and to identify the most vulnerable populations.

As cannabis use becomes more prevalent and socially acceptable, it is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of this substance.

While cannabis may have some therapeutic value for certain conditions, it may also pose severe threats to the heart and the brain.

Users should be cautious and informed about the possible consequences of their choices.