From the Guidelines
Long-term smoking of cannabis is associated with significant health risks, including mental health problems, chronic respiratory issues, and increased risk of cardiovascular events, and therefore, it is strongly recommended to avoid or minimize its use. The potential health effects of long-term cannabis smoking are numerous and can have a significant impact on an individual's quality of life. Some of the possible health effects include mental health problems, such as psychosis, major depression, and suicidal ideation, as well as chronic respiratory issues, like chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease 1. Additionally, cannabis smoking may be associated with adverse cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, and may also trigger allergic reactions, including immediate, severe events 1. Key points to consider include:
- Mental health problems, such as psychosis, major depression, and suicidal ideation, are associated with long-term cannabis use 1
- Chronic respiratory issues, like chronic bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, are potential health effects of long-term cannabis smoking 1
- Adverse cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, may be associated with cannabis smoking 1
- Allergic reactions, including immediate, severe events, may be triggered by cannabis use 1 It is essential to weigh these risks carefully, particularly for young people, pregnant women, and those with mental health or cardiovascular conditions, and to consider lower-risk consumption methods, such as vaporizing rather than smoking, using lower-THC products, and avoiding daily use.
From the Research
Long-term Effects of Smoking Cannabis
- The long-term effects of smoking cannabis can be detrimental to both mental and physical health, including mood disorders, exacerbation of psychotic disorders, cannabis use disorders, withdrawal syndrome, neurocognitive impairments, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases 2.
- Frequent and prolonged use of cannabis can lead to chronic health problems, such as hyperemesis syndrome, impaired coordination and performance, anxiety, suicidal ideations/tendencies, and psychotic symptoms 2.
- Medicinal cannabis may provide short-term relief for certain symptoms, but it is not a cure and can have mental health risks, particularly with high doses of THC 3.
- High-potency cannabis, which is readily available recreationally, is particularly damaging due to its high THC and low CBD concentration, and can have adverse effects on psychological and physical health 4.
Mental Health Effects
- Cannabis use has been linked to an increased risk of anxiety and depression, particularly in individuals with chronic bronchitis 5, 6.
- The incidence of anxiety and depression is higher in smokers with chronic bronchitis compared to non-smokers 5.
- Female gender, increased age, and concomitant comorbidities are associated with a higher risk of anxiety and depression in individuals with chronic bronchitis 6.