### Cardiovascular Risks of Cannabis Use A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has shed light on the cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis use. The study analyzed survey responses from over 434,000 people between 2016 and 2020, focusing on their self-reported experiences with cardiovascular problems like heart attacks and strokes. The findings are particularly relevant as nearly 1 in 5 people in the U.S. use cannabis annually. #### Key Findings - **Increased Risk**: The study found that any use of cannabis, whether daily or non-daily, was linked to a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. This was true even for individuals who had never used tobacco. - **Frequency Matters**: The risk of cardiovascular problems increased with the frequency of cannabis use. Daily users were at a higher risk compared to non-daily users. - **Method of Use**: About 75% of cannabis users reported smoking as their primary method of consumption. The study highlighted that cannabis smoke has significant cardiovascular risks, similar to tobacco smoke. #### Implications The study's lead author, Dr. Abra Jeffers, emphasized that the findings are crucial as cannabis use is on the rise while conventional tobacco use is decreasing. The study suggests that healthcare providers should screen patients for cannabis use to better manage and mitigate potential cardiovascular risks. #### Conclusion This study adds to the growing body of evidence that cannabis use is not without risks, particularly concerning heart health. As cannabis becomes more widely used, understanding these risks becomes increasingly important for both users and healthcare providers.