Heart health alert: Daily cannabis use may double risk of deadly cardiac events
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association reveals that daily cannabis use nearly doubles the risk of fatal heart events. Analyzing data from over 430,000 adults, the research indicates a 25% increased risk of cardiovascular disease among daily users. Experts emphasize the need for public awareness and further research into cannabis's cardiovascular effects.
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A comprehensive new study has found that daily cannabis use may nearly double the risk of dying from heart-related causes, raising significant concerns about the cardiovascular effects of marijuana as its use becomes more widespread. The research, published on June 17, 2025, in the Journal of the American Heart Association , analyzed health data spanning nearly two decades from over 430,000 American adults.The study revealed that individuals who use cannabis daily face a 25% increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and are almost twice as likely to suffer fatal heart events compared to non-users. In contrast, occasional cannabis users did not show a significant increase in heart-related risks. These findings emerged from data collected between 1999 and 2018 through the National Health Interview Survey, making it one of the largest studies to examine the long-term cardiovascular effects of marijuana use.Lead author Dr. Abra Jeffers from Massachusetts General Hospital emphasized the public health implications, stating, 'Our findings suggest that daily cannabis use may have serious cardiovascular consequences. As marijuana becomes more accessible, it's crucial that both the public and healthcare providers are aware of these potential risks.' The study underscores the need for increased awareness, especially as legalization expands and perceptions of cannabis as harmless persist.While the exact biological mechanisms remain unclear, previous research indicates that cannabis can elevate heart rate, increase blood pressure, and cause inflammation in blood vessels—all factors that may contribute to cardiovascular disease. Dr. Jeffers cautioned that these physiological effects could explain the heightened risk observed among daily users.Experts from the American Heart Association have long warned about potential heart risks associated with cannabis, including arrhythmias, heart attacks, and strokes. Dr. Robert Page, a spokesperson for the association, remarked, 'This study is a wake-up call. We need more education and research to understand the full impact of cannabis on cardiovascular health.'As cannabis use grows globally, this landmark study highlights the urgent need for public health messaging and further investigation into how marijuana affects heart health, particularly for those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or risk factors.
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