Inhalation of Cannabis Significantly Raises Risk of Asthma and Lung Diseases

Recent research from the University of California, San Francisco, highlights the potential respiratory health risks associated with inhaling cannabis. The study, published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, demonstrates that daily inhalation of marijuana—whether through smoking, vaping, or dabbing—can considerably increase the likelihood of developing respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Specifically, individuals who inhale cannabis daily face a 44% higher risk of asthma and a 27% increased chance of developing COPD.

The findings are particularly noteworthy because they include individuals who have never smoked cigarettes, emphasizing that cannabis inhalation alone can adversely affect lung health. For those who have never used tobacco, daily cannabis inhalation was linked to a 51% heightened risk of asthma. The study incorporated data from nearly 380,000 adults, of whom approximately 222,000 had never smoked tobacco, making it one of the largest investigations into the subject.

The research defined inhalation broadly to cover smoking, vaping, and dabbing, where users breathe in vapors from concentrated cannabis. The results suggest that inhaling cannabis exposes the lungs to harmful substances, much like traditional tobacco smoke, which can lead to inflammation and respiratory problems over time.

Experts highlight that the increasing legalization of cannabis and the perception that it is safer than tobacco may lead to underestimated risks. Dr. Alison Rustagi, the study’s lead author, emphasizes that to reduce the risk of developing chronic lung diseases, individuals should avoid starting or limit cannabis inhalation. This advice is especially important given that the disease development often spans decades.

In conclusion, while cannabis legalization continues to expand, awareness regarding its potential respiratory health impacts is crucial for making informed choices. This study underscores the need for public health messages to address the risks associated with inhaling cannabis, particularly for those with no history of tobacco use.