Cannabis Use Linked to Higher Stroke Risk, Study Reveals Unexpected Pattern

The researchers analyzed data from 442,906 US residents with an average age of 49. Survey participants reported whether they had used cannabis in the previous month and whether they had ever been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, a heart attack or a stroke.

The study included different methods of cannabis use, including smoking, vaping and consuming cannabis-infused products.

Compared with people who had not used cannabis in the previous month, those who used it one to five days per month were 23% more likely to report having cardiovascular disease. Among those who used cannabis 16 to 30 days per month, the likelihood was 21% higher.

The strongest association was observed for stroke. People who used cannabis one to five days per month were 40% more likely to have experienced a stroke, while the figure was 25% higher among frequent users. However, the researchers found no statistically significant association between frequency of cannabis use and heart attacks.

The authors noted that the relationship was less straightforward than they had expected: the risk did not increase steadily with more frequent use. Elevated rates were also observed among people who used cannabis relatively infrequently.

The researchers emphasize that the study identifies an association but does not prove that cannabis itself causes cardiovascular disease. In addition, the data were based on participants' self-reports, and the researchers had no information about the dosage or THC concentration of the products used. The surveys also did not cover all US states.

The authors suggest that doctors should discuss cannabis use with patients in the same way they discuss tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption, assessing potential risks to cardiovascular health.