Cannabis use linked to 37% higher stroke risk in massive study
A massive analysis involving more than 100 million people has found strong links between recreational drug use and stroke, including among younger adults. Cocaine was associated with nearly double the risk of stroke, amphetamines with more than double the risk, and cannabis with a 37% increase.
Using cannabis, cocaine, or amphetamines may significantly increase the risk of stroke, according to a comprehensive study by researchers at the University of Cambridge. The analysis, which examined data from over 100 million individuals, found that cocaine and amphetamine use each raised stroke risk by roughly twice that of non-users, while cannabis use was associated with a 37% higher risk.
Younger users under 55 faced an especially high risk, with amphetamine use linked to a 174% increase in stroke risk and cannabis use increasing risk by 14%. The study also found that cocaine use disorders were associated with brain hemorrhage and cardioembolic stroke, while cannabis use disorders were linked to large artery stroke.
Researchers believe the increased risk stems from factors like elevated blood pressure, blood vessel spasms, abnormal heart rhythms, greater blood clotting, and inflammation. Public health measures to reduce substance abuse could help lower stroke risk, according to the study's authors.
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