(Rightallegiance.com) – A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) has identified significant cardiovascular risks associated with cannabis usage, even in individuals who do not smoke it. The findings add to an expanding body of research suggesting that chronic cannabis use can have detrimental effects on the cardiovascular system. The study raises concerns about the broader health implications of cannabis consumption regardless of the method of intake, contributing to ongoing discussions about the safety and regulation of cannabis use.
The study, published in JAMA Cardiology on May 28, 2025, involved 55 healthy adults aged 18 to 50 who were regular cannabis users—either through smoking or consuming THC-infused edibles—at least three times a week for over a year. Importantly, none of the participants used nicotine products.
Participants underwent tests to assess vascular function, specifically focusing on the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels. The results revealed that both groups of cannabis users exhibited approximately a 50% reduction in vascular function compared to non-users, a level of impairment comparable to that seen in tobacco smokers.
Vascular Impairment: Both smoked and edible forms of cannabis were associated with significant reductions in blood vessel function, increasing the risk of heart disease, hypertension, and other cardiovascular conditions.
Distinct Mechanisms: While both forms of consumption led to vascular dysfunction, the underlying mechanisms differed. Smokers showed harmful changes in blood serum affecting endothelial cells, whereas edible users did not exhibit these serum changes, suggesting different pathways of cardiovascular impact.
Dose-Response Relationship: The study indicated that higher THC intake correlated with greater vascular damage, implying that even reduced use could mitigate health risks.
Dr. Leila Mohammadi, the study’s lead author, emphasized the significance of the findings: “This study enhances the understanding of the potential risks to vascular health linked to cannabis use and provides more evidence that cannabis use is not benign.”
Dr. Matthew L. Springer, senior author of the study, added that the results challenge the perception of edibles as a safer alternative: “Even edible THC, previously considered less harmful, shows significant vascular effects.”
As cannabis legalization expands, these findings underscore the need for public awareness regarding its potential health risks. Health professionals advocate for incorporating cardiovascular warnings on cannabis products and conducting further research to fully understand the long-term effects of various consumption methods.
The study’s authors recommend that individuals, especially those with existing cardiovascular conditions, consult healthcare providers before using cannabis in any form.