Cannabis use significantly increases heart attack and stroke risks

In recent years, the recreational use of marijuana has become increasingly common, sparking debates about its safety and health impacts. Research emerging from multiple studies has raised serious concerns, particularly regarding the effects on the brain and heart. A notable French study indicated that marijuana users face a heightened risk of heart attacks and strokes, surpassing the risk posed by cocaine and other drugs. This alarming finding points toward a growing public health issue that demands attention. Alongside this, a Canadian study established a connection between cannabis-related hospital visits and an increased risk of dementia in older adults. This suggests that the adverse effects of marijuana are not limited to younger users, but also extend to aging populations, challenging the perception that marijuana is a benign substance. Participants in these studies have experienced significant health complications, which raises questions about the long-term consequences of cannabis consumption on both physical and mental well-being. Dr. Daniel Amen, a psychiatrist and brain imaging specialist, has been a vocal critic of marijuana's perceived harmlessness. Through decades of brain imaging research conducted at Amen Clinics in California, he has discovered that marijuana users often exhibit lower blood flow in their brains. This finding is complemented by statistics linking marijuana use to increased rates of anxiety, depression, suicide, and psychosis among teenagers and young adults. Dr. Amen warns that such mental health issues could derail the cognitive development of those whose brains have not fully matured. Moreover, Dr. Amen has noted a concerning trend where parents smoke marijuana with their children. He argues that this behavior supports a societal shift towards normalizing substance use at an early age, which could undermine the mental health of future generations. As both cannabis and alcohol are implicated in adverse health outcomes, he questions why individuals would choose to engage with substances that have such detrimental effects on brain development. As the understanding of these risks expands, it is imperative for public health messages to evolve and emphasize the potential harms of marijuana use, to protect the health and development of young individuals.