Recent findings in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveal a potential link between cannabis use, regardless of consumption method (smoking, eating, or vaping), and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Dr. Abra Jeffers, the lead author of the study and a data analyst at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, underscored the surge in cannabis use and the insufficient awareness surrounding its cardiovascular risks.

She noted, "Despite common use, little is known about the risks of cannabis use and, in particular, the cardiovascular disease risks."

The research analyzed survey data from over 400,000 U.S. adults spanning the years 2016 to 2020, exploring the correlation between cannabis use and self-reported cardiovascular outcomes.

The results indicated a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes among individuals using marijuana, with daily users showing the greatest odds.

Dr. Robert L. Page II, a professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, stressed the significance of healthcare practitioners discussing cannabis use with patients.

"As cannabis use continues to grow in legality and access across the U.S., practitioners and clinicians need to remember to assess cannabis use at each patient encounter," he commented.