A pooled analysis of 24 observational studies led by Wilhelm Storck found that cannabis use was associated with a twofold increase in cardiovascular deaths and higher risks of acute coronary syndrome and stroke.
The review drew on data published between 2016 and 2023 and covered roughly 200 million people in multiple countries. (Heart)
What researchers say
The paper’s authors call for routine assessment of cannabis exposure in patients who present with serious heart or stroke problems, noting limitations in how past studies measured dose and product type.
An accompanying editorial urged treating cannabis like tobacco in public health planning: discourage use, protect bystanders, and add clear product warnings.
Local context
According to SciELO, South Africa faces a growing burden of cardiovascular disease at younger ages, which makes these findings relevant here.
A South African Medical Journal position statement has long warned that smoking cannabis is linked to cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, and it urges evidence-based harm reduction and more research locally.
Voices from clinicians
International cardiology outlets covered the meta-analysis and flagged the need for stronger evidence about dose, route and product potency.
South African local guidance already favours asking patients about cannabis use when assessing cardiovascular risk. (Medscape)
What this means for readers
For people with heart disease, recent unexplained chest pain or stroke symptoms, clinicians recommend disclosing cannabis use so care teams can consider it in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Policymakers will face pressure to include cardiovascular risk in cannabis regulation and public education.
Written by Angelica Rhoda
First published by Cape {Town} etc
Also see: Feeling Paranoid? New Research Reveals Cannabis’ Hidden Mental Health Risks
