Marijuana May Be More Harmful to Your Heart Than You Think.
A 2025 study from UC San Francisco, published in JAMA Cardiology, found that chronic cannabis use—whether smoked or consumed as edibles—is linked to significantly reduced blood vessel function, comparable to the effects seen in tobacco smokers. Participants who used cannabis at least three times a week for over a year exhibited vascular function reduced by roughly half compared to non-users.
The study also revealed that marijuana smokers had blood serum changes harmful to endothelial cells, which line all blood and lymphatic vessels. These changes were not observed in edible users, suggesting different mechanisms of vascular damage depending on the method of consumption. While the exact pathways remain unclear, the findings indicate that both forms of cannabis use may increase the risk of heart attack, hypertension, and other cardiovascular conditions.
If you use cannabis regularly, be aware of potential cardiovascular risks and consider discussing them with your healthcare provider.