Cannabis may be legal in more places than ever, but new research is raising serious questions about its long-term safety—especially when it comes to heart health. A major meta-analysis published in the journal Heart finds that regular cannabis use is linked to a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death—surpassing even drugs like cocaine and opioids in some cases.
The French researchers behind the study reviewed 24 large-scale studies involving more than 400 million individuals, analyzing both cross-sectional and long-term cohort data. Their findings were alarming:
- 29% higher risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction)
- 20% higher risk of stroke
- Double the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease
Perhaps most concerning is that these risks apply to people who use cannabis at least once a week, including young adults and those with no previous heart conditions.
One study even concluded that cannabis was a stronger predictor of heart attack than cocaine or opioids, according to data from French hospitals.
Young People and Women Face Elevated Risks
While cannabis use is rising among all age groups, younger users (ages 15–36) were found to be particularly vulnerable. One study showed increased rates of heart attack among cannabis users under 50, even in those with no prior cardiac issues. Another revealed that women may face an even higher risk of cardiovascular mortality than men due to cannabis exposure.
The risks aren’t limited to smoking either. Edibles, concentrates, and other forms of cannabis also affect the heart and blood vessels. As Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News medical analyst, recently pointed out, users often escalate dosage over time, moving from one gummy to two or three—often unaware of how this increase could strain the cardiovascular system.
“We definitely jumped the gun by not anticipating all the medical risks here,” Siegel warned.
ER Visits, Psychosis, and Other Health Concerns
Beyond cardiovascular issues, doctors are also reporting a rise in emergency room visits due to cannabis-related psychosis, vomiting disorders, and accidents. In seniors, cannabis use has been linked to increased confusion, behavioral changes, and even accelerated cognitive decline.
“We’re studying states like Colorado where cannabis has been legal the longest—and the results are not pretty,” said Siegel.
Public Health Experts Urge Caution
Researchers and doctors alike are calling for more oversight, better education, and stronger health warnings for cannabis users—especially as the drug becomes more widely accepted and commercially available.
The authors of the Heart study urge clinicians to screen for cannabis use in all patients presenting with cardiovascular issues, and to treat cannabis use with the same level of caution once reserved for tobacco.
While medical marijuana can provide real relief for some patients, regular use—especially for non-medical reasons—carries real risks that shouldn’t be ignored.
If you or someone you love uses cannabis regularly and is concerned about its health impact, especially on the heart, it’s time to get informed. Reach out to Avenues Recovery for expert guidance, compassionate support, and personalized care. Whether you're looking to reduce use or explore treatment options, our team is here to help—because your health is worth protecting.
Your heart matters. Let’s take care of it.