The use of cannabis could impact cardiovascular health.

In a systematic review and meta-analysis published in Heart, investigators analyzed the data of 24 studies involving more than 430 million individuals who either used cannabis for recreational or medical purposes or didn’t use the drug — with the goal of determining how cannabis affects the cardiovascular system.

Compared with those who didn’t use cannabis, the participants who did use the drug were more likely to experience acute coronary syndrome, stroke and cardiovascular mortality. Further, younger cannabis users who reported more than once weekly use of the drug experienced a greater risk of heart attacks compared with those who used the drug occasionally or once in their lifetimes.

The investigators hope their findings can inform clinicians performing routine cardiovascular risk assessments, particularly among those who use cannabis regularly.

Read more: Heart

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