Will Tobacco and Marijuana Use Cause a 50% Increase in Heart Disease Deaths in the Next Five Years?
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Synopsis
New findings indicate that tobacco and marijuana consumption could lead to a staggering 50% rise in heart disease-related deaths within just five years. With alarming statistics on cardiovascular risks, these studies shed light on an urgent public health issue that continues to escalate despite awareness campaigns.
Key Takeaways
- Tobacco use is expected to raise coronary heart disease deaths by 40%.
- Cannabis use disorder increases the risk of serious cardiovascular events.
- Studies predict a 50% rise in heart disease deaths within five years.
- Awareness campaigns are crucial but insufficient to reduce usage.
- Targeted interventions are essential for vulnerable groups.
New Delhi, May 3 (NationPress) The use of tobacco and marijuana is projected to lead to a 50% increase in deaths caused by heart disease within the next five years, based on findings from two significant studies.
These studies indicate that tobacco consumption is likely to elevate the risk of coronary heart disease mortality by 40%, while individuals suffering from cannabis use disorder are 50% more prone to experiencing severe cardiovascular issues such as cardiogenic shock, acute myocardial infarction, and arrhythmias.
The findings were shared during the scientific sessions of the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) 2025, taking place in Washington, DC, USA.
“In spite of extensive public health initiatives aimed at highlighting the dangers of tobacco and cannabis, their usage remains prevalent, revealing ongoing impacts on cardiovascular health,” noted James B. Hermiller, President of SCAI.
Ischemic heart disease, also referred to as coronary heart disease, arises when the heart's function is compromised due to decreased blood flow caused by narrowed or blocked coronary arteries.
A research team from Wayne State University in the US evaluated data spanning from 1999 to 2020 regarding ischemic heart disease fatalities linked to tobacco use in individuals aged 25 and older.
The analysis predicts a staggering 43.7% rise in tobacco-related heart disease deaths by 2030. Although female mortality rates have declined, males are experiencing a concerning increase in deaths.
“The issue of tobacco-related ischemic heart disease is not merely a relic of the past; it continues to be a leading cause of death today. For effective intervention strategies, it is critical for clinicians to identify groups that are disproportionately affected,” stated Roopeessh Vempati from the university.
Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is characterized by a problematic pattern of cannabis consumption, which can lead to distress or impairment in daily life activities.
Researchers from Sinai Hospital in the US examined the records of 1,372,419 patients admitted with heart failure.
The study found that heart failure patients with CUD faced a significantly heightened risk of severe cardiovascular events: 27% more likely to experience cardiogenic shock, 50% more likely to suffer acute myocardial infarction, and 48% more likely to develop arrhythmias.
Interestingly, individuals with cannabis use disorder and heart failure exhibited a lower mortality risk compared to their counterparts without the disorder.
“Although they have a reduced chance of death, they face considerably increased odds of developing other serious cardiovascular conditions, such as heart attacks or irregular heartbeats. This information is essential for healthcare providers and public health officials to inform individuals about the potential risks associated with regular cannabis use, even prior to the onset of heart failure,” remarked Syed Ishaq, MD, an Internal Medicine resident at Sinai Hospital.
Point of View
We acknowledge the urgent need for targeted public health strategies to combat the escalating risks posed by tobacco and marijuana use. It is essential for communities to be informed about these risks and for healthcare professionals to adopt a proactive approach in addressing these challenges.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the projected impact of tobacco and marijuana use on heart disease deaths?
Studies suggest that tobacco and marijuana consumption could lead to a 50% increase in heart disease deaths over the next five years.
How much does tobacco use increase the risk of coronary heart disease deaths?
Tobacco use is expected to raise coronary heart disease mortality by 40%.
What are the risks associated with cannabis use disorder?
Individuals with cannabis use disorder are at a 50% higher risk of severe cardiovascular events, such as acute myocardial infarction.
What have studies shown about gender differences in tobacco-related heart disease mortality?
While female mortality rates from tobacco-related heart disease have decreased, male mortality rates have seen a significant increase.
How can healthcare professionals address these health risks?
Healthcare professionals must educate patients about the cardiovascular risks associated with tobacco and cannabis use and implement targeted interventions.
