Research reveals connection between marijuana use and premature heart disease, particularly in individuals consume THC-infused foods.
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A new study has found that chronic users of marijuana, either through smoking or consuming THC-infused edibles, face the same early signs of cardiovascular disease as tobacco smokers. This research, led by Dr. Matthew Springer, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, appears to be the first to explore the impact of THC on human vascular function.
The research demonstrated that marijuana smokers and THC edible users experienced a significant reduction in vascular function, with the former displaying a 42% drop and the latter a 56% decrease compared to non-users. However, the study did not establish a causal relationship between cannabis use and poor vascular function.
"This study shows early changes that may explain why marijuana smoking has been connected to later heart disease," said Dr. Springer, who believes the act of smoking and THC itself contribute differently to these changes in vascular function.
Prior research on mice had shown damage to blood vessels in response to marijuana smoke, but it was uncertain if these effects would be mirrored in humans. Perhaps most alarming from the latest study is the impact of THC-infused edibles, which previously were thought to be comparatively harmless.
"The findings regarding THC-laced edibles are surprising, and they may suggest that other forms of marijuana, such as teas and tinctures, are not as benign as initially thought," commented Dr. Andrew Freeman, director of cardiovascular prevention and wellness at National Jewish Health in Denver.
The study's participants, aged 18 to 50, abstained from tobacco smoking and vaping and had limited secondhand smoke exposure. Researchers monitored the major artery in the upper right arm of each participant, applying a tight blood pressure cuff and observing the artery's dilation following removal of the cuff. The study found that damage to the endothelial cells responsible for dilation was correlated to the frequency of cannabis use.
In a separate analysis, blood serum from cannabis smokers and edible users was added to cultures of endothelial cells in the lab. Although blood from edible users appeared to have no adverse effects on cell health, cells incubated with blood from marijuana smokers produced 27% less nitric oxide compared to those treated with blood from non-smokers.
Researchers noted similarities between the observed vascular damage in THC users and that seen in tobacco smokers, but accented that the underlying causes may differ. More extensive studies are needed to determine whether a "Goldilocks zone" exists for cannabis consumption that minimizes the risk of negative health consequences.
The sheer magnitude of vascular dysfunction linked to cannabis use suggests that it carries comparable heart risks compared to tobacco smoking. Cardiovascular experts advise avoiding the use of all substances, including cannabis products, due to potential harm to the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
- The latest study on chronic cannabis use indicates that it may lead to early signs of cardiovascular diseases, similar to tobacco smoking.
- Surprising findings reveal that THC-infused edibles may have a significant impact on vascular function, potentially mirroring the effects seen in marijuana smokers.
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- The study on human subjects showed that regular cannabis use contributes to reduced vascular function, with marijuana smokers experiencing a 42% drop and THC edible users a 56% decrease compared to non-users.
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- The study's findings underscore the need for further research to explore the optimal cannabis consumption levels that minimize the risk of negative health consequences, preserving one's health and well-being.
