Marijuana is the most commonly used federally illegal drug in the U.S., with an estimated 48.2 million users in 2019. States continue to legalize recreational and medical cannabis use, with activists promoting it as a safer alternative to tobacco and other drugs, as well as a therapeutic option for the chronically ill. However, medical professionals and public health officials have warned about the long-term effects of marijuana on the mind and body, despite its increasing popularity.
Smoking marijuana carries significant risks of damage to the lungs and cardiovascular system, similar to tobacco. A recent study published by the Journal of the American Heart Association found that daily marijuana use, mostly through smoking, is as harmful as smoking tobacco cigarettes. Daily users were found to have a 25% increased risk of heart attack and a 42% increased risk of stroke. This highlights the potential dangers of marijuana use and discredits the common belief that it is harmless.
The effects of marijuana use on the brain are a major concern, particularly regarding brain development and mental health. All marijuana products contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is linked to the severity of its effects on the brain. Dr. Kevin Sabet, a former White House drug policy adviser, stated that today’s marijuana can significantly increase the risk of mental illness, including psychosis and schizophrenia, as well as suicide. Addiction, or marijuana use disorder, affects an estimated 10% to 30% of users, according to CDC studies.
While marijuana smoke contains similar toxins to cigarette smoke, more research is needed to determine if there is a direct link between marijuana use and the development of lung cancer. Pulmonary risks for marijuana users include lung tissue damage, scarring to small blood vessels, increased vulnerability to bronchitis, high levels of mucus production, and an elevated risk of developing asthma, particularly in young people. The lack of concrete evidence makes it difficult to definitively assess the risks of lung cancer associated with marijuana use.
The safety of alternative marijuana products like edibles, oils, and concentrates is still uncertain, as they may contain highly concentrated forms of THC and potentially harmful additives. The CDC notes that the effects of using these concentrated forms are not well understood, but they may increase the risk of developing cannabis use disorder. Experts continue to research the potential dangers of different methods of marijuana consumption to provide more clarity on the safety of these products.
Overall, despite the increasing legalization and use of marijuana in the U.S., medical professionals and public health officials continue to warn of the potential risks associated with its use. From the harmful effects on the lungs and cardiovascular system to the impact on brain development and mental health, there are significant concerns about the safety of marijuana, particularly with the rise of high THC concentrations in products. More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of marijuana use and to provide informed guidance for users and policymakers.
