What cardiovascular risks are associated with cannabis use?

Cannabis consumption was associated with increased ischemic stroke risk and an almost fivefold increase in myocardial infarction, primarily in the period immediately following consumption. Males in their 30s appeared to bear the greatest burden. Edible preparations were linked to more cardiovascular-related emergency department visits than combustible forms.

Narrative review synthesizing existing evidence on cardiovascular effects of cannabis, including data on combustible and edible forms, chemical components (aromatic amines, PAHs), and vascular complications.

Cannabis is now the most popular inhaled substance in the US, surpassing tobacco. The cardiovascular risks may be placing a younger, traditionally low-risk population in danger of major cardiac events.

The cardiovascular risk profile of cannabis complicates its perception as a safer alternative to tobacco. The finding that edibles may cause more cardiac ER visits than smoking challenges assumptions about the relative safety of different consumption methods.

Narrative review without systematic methodology. Much of the evidence is observational and cannot establish causation. Research is described as "nascent" by the authors themselves.