We have been sounding the alarm on cannabis use for quite some time now, and now, as more research is becoming available, we’re seeing what we’ve long predicted coming to pass.

As a society is rushing headlong into efforts to legalize and normalize cannabis use, and as proponents are claiming it cures just about every ache, pain, and malady known to man, the science is telling a very different story.

The latest research is now definitively linking cannabis use in people under 50 to America’s number one killer, heart attacks.

Recent research suggests marijuana use increases the risk of heart attack by six-fold, in people under age 50. In a study of 4.6 million people, it was found marijuana users are more likely to have a stroke, heart failure, or cardiac arrest.

The study was conducted from 2010 to 2018 on adults younger than 50 without any comorbidities.

Marijuana users were more likely experience myocardial infarction/heart attack (occurs when a part of the heart muscle dies due to a lack of blood flow, often caused by a blockage in a coronary artery).

They were six times more likely to experience a heart attack, two times more likely to have heart failure, and four times more likely to experience ischemic stroke. (This occurs when a blood clot or other blockage prevents blood flow to the brain.

This deprivation of oxygen and nutrients to the brain tissue can lead to permanent damage or death.) Risk of death from any of these was tripled.

Let’s look at what cannabis does to your body.

Within an hour of using marijuana, the risk of heart attack increases due to elevated heart rate, higher blood pressure, affected blood vessel function, and increased demand for oxygen in the heart.

All these symptoms cause cardiovascular strain which leads to a higher incidence of heart attacks in cannabis users.

People under 50 are more likely to experience a myocardial infarction compared to non-users.

Regular marijuana use has been linked to cardiovascular issues, including an increased risk of heart disease, particularly in people with existing conditions.

Smoking marijuana exposes users to combustion byproducts which may contribute to cardiovascular problems, artery inflammation, and plaque buildup, increasing heart attack risk, just like tobacco.

The risk is especially high for those with underlying health issues like hypertension, high cholesterol, or a family history of heart disease.

Doctors should be asking their patients about cannabis use, and patients ought to be upfront with their doctors to be clear on their heart health risks.

Doctors should be warning their patients of the added risks so patients can make an informed decision before using the drug.

For a long time, cannabis has not been recognized as a heart disease risk factor. Young people who frequently use cannabis—especially in high doses or in combination with other substances like tobacco or alcohol—are at greater risk.

Frequency of use and personal health are also a factor.

If you have concerns, it’s a good idea to be honest with your doctor about your personal risk factors. This is no longer something you should hide.

It’s even a better time to just stop using cannabis!

If you or someone you love needs help, reach out to a Cannabis Cessation Program like the one at Sanctuary Clinics. Don’t let your life go up in smoke.