Overview

• Daily use of marijuana increases the risk of developing heart failure by 34% compared to non-users, according to a study of 156,999 people over a four-year period conducted by researchers at Medstar Health in Baltimore.
• A separate study examining more than 10 million adults over the age of 65 who don't smoke tobacco but have existing health issues found that those using marijuana had a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing a major cardiac or brain event, such as a heart attack or stroke, during hospitalization.
• Additional research found that high blood pressure readings of over 130/80 mm Hg and high cholesterol were key predictors of major adverse heart and brain events in marijuana users.
• Robert Page II, chair of the volunteer writing group for the AHA's Scientific Statement on marijuana and cardiovascular health, advised that smoking or vaping any substance, including marijuana, could potentially harm the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.
• The studies highlight the need for more research into the long-term effects of marijuana use, particularly in light of the recent increase in its use among older adults.