Study Links Cannabis Use to Higher Risk of Heart Attacks and Stroke
Cannabis heart risk highlighted in new Heart journal study: Users face a 29% higher chance of Acute Coronary Syndrome and a 20% greater stroke risk compared to non-users. The study included data from 24 foreign surveys conducted between 2016 and 2023, involving almost 400 million people between the ages of 19 and 59.
Because the results confirm a growing body of evidence that marijuana use may significantly affect cardiovascular health, researchers recommend routine screening for cannabis use in those with serious cardiac issues.
What Is Acute Coronary Syndrome?
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) refers to any condition where the blood flow to the heart is suddenly reduced or blocked, such as during a heart attack.The disease can damage the heart muscle and is often caused by blood clots that form in narrowed arteries.
The Impact of Cannabis on the Heart
Despite the need for more study, researchers have discovered that cannabis:
- raises the heart rate
- raises blood pressure
- might harm the linings of the coronary arteries.
According to the CDC, marijuana can stress the cardiovascular system by raising heart rate and blood pressure. Cannabis may cause tiny artery wall irregularities that reduce oxygen flow to the heart muscle and increase the risk of blood clots, according to Dr. Ahmed Mahmoud of Boston University.
Previous Studies Reinforce the Findings
This isn’t the first time cannabis has been linked to cardiovascular issues. A study from early 2025 reported that marijuana users under 50 were:
- 6.2 times more likely to have a heart attack
- 4.3 times more likely to suffer a stroke
- 2 times more likely to experience heart failure
Similarly, the Journal of the American Heart Association found increased cardiovascular risks among cannabis users in a 2024 study.
A Serious Caution to Cannabis Users
Despite marijuana’s legalization and growing use, especially among younger people, these findings emphasize the need for more awareness and health education. Medical professionals encourage people who use cannabis to discuss any possible cardiovascular issues with their doctors, especially if they already have heart issues.
As cannabis usage for medical and recreational purposes increases, understanding its long-term health impacts is crucial to make informed decisions.
Source: USA Today
