Research Links Chronic Cannabis Use to Increased Cardiovascular Risks

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, has revealed that long-term cannabis consumption—whether through smoking or consuming edibles—may pose significant risks to cardiovascular health. Published on May 28, 2025, in JAMA Cardiology, the research highlights that regular use of marijuana can impair vascular function, which is a crucial factor in heart health.

The study involved 55 healthy individuals who regularly used marijuana for at least one year, either via smoking or edibles containing THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis. Participants averaged three or more uses per week, with smokers averaging around a decade of use, while edible consumers averaged about five years. Importantly, none of the participants used nicotine.

Findings demonstrated that cannabis users experienced approximately a 50% reduction in vascular function compared to non-users. This decline is comparable to the effects seen in tobacco smokers and is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, hypertension, and other cardiovascular issues. Additionally, marijuana smokers exhibited alterations in their blood serum that adversely affected endothelial cells—the cells lining blood vessels—and lymphatic vessels. Curiously, participants who consumed edibles did not show these specific blood serum changes, suggesting different underlying mechanisms for the vascular effects of smoking versus ingestion.

While the precise biological pathway by which THC damages blood vessels remains unclear, the evidence strongly suggests that smoking marijuana disrupts vascular health through distinct pathways than edibles. Lead author Dr. Leila Mohammadi emphasized that this research indicates smoking marijuana has negative effects on blood vessel function, highlighting the importance of understanding its cardiovascular implications.

This research underscores the need for public awareness of the potential heart health risks associated with long-term cannabis use, especially for individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions or those at risk. As cannabis legalization expands, further studies are essential to fully comprehend its health effects and inform safe consumption practices.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-regular-cannabis-eaten-cardiovascular-health.html