Cannabis Use Linked to Increased Heart Attack Risk, Studies Show
Recent studies suggest that cannabis use may significantly raise the risk of heart attacks, even among young and healthy individuals. Two new studies add to mounting evidence that marijuana can negatively impact cardiovascular health.
A retrospective study published in JACC Advances analyzed over 4.6 million people and found that cannabis users under 50 were more than six times as likely to experience a heart attack compared to non-users. In addition to heart attacks, cannabis use also increased the risk of ischemic stroke, heart failure, and cardiovascular death.
A meta-analysis presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session reviewed data from 12 studies, involving over 75 million people, and found a 50% higher risk of heart attack among cannabis users. The research highlighted that the risk is particularly acute in the hours following consumption, with heart attack risk peaking within an hour.
The findings suggest cannabis impacts heart rhythm, increases oxygen demand on the heart, and may cause endothelial dysfunction, which restricts blood flow. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, these risks are particularly concerning as marijuana use continues to rise, especially in areas where it is legal.
Experts urge clinicians to ask about cannabis use as part of routine cardiovascular risk assessments and caution the public about its potential dangers. More prospective studies are needed to further clarify which groups are most at risk and to confirm these findings.
Reference: American College of Cardiology, JACC Advances, American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session, 2025.
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