A recently published study in the medical journal Heart has sparked concern over the potential cardiovascular risks associated with marijuana use. According to the meta-analysis, cannabis users may be twice as likely to die from heart-related conditions compared to non-users. While the findings are significant, medical experts urge the public to approach the results with context and caution.
Dr. Alexandra Kharazi, a San Diego-based cardiothoracic surgeon, emphasized in an interview with Nexstar’s KSWB that the study is a meta-analysis, meaning it compiles data from various observational studies. “While the data shows a strong association, it’s not causation,” Dr. Kharazi explained. “These studies don’t account for confounding factors like other substance use or individual health conditions.”
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, and this new research suggests that marijuana could be an additional risk factor. However, Dr. Kharazi stresses that risk levels vary greatly depending on the individual.
“Someone with multiple cardiovascular risk factors who uses marijuana recreationally might be at higher risk,” she said. “But for others—like cancer patients using it medicinally to manage chemo-related symptoms—the benefits might outweigh the risks.”
As a surgeon who handles complex, high-risk heart cases, Dr. Kharazi encourages open dialogue with patients rather than fear-based messaging. “I’m not anti-cannabis. I’m pro-conversation,” she said. “I ask my patients who use marijuana:
One major concern she raises is the method of consumption. Smoking, whether tobacco or marijuana, remains a serious threat to lung and heart health, particularly for those facing surgery. “If you can avoid smoking—whether it’s marijuana or tobacco—it will improve your outcomes,” she advised.
For parents and concerned individuals, the study may serve as a useful talking point. Dr. Kharazi even joked, “Will I use this study to scare my daughter? Yes.” Still, she reiterated that real-world impact depends on each person’s unique health situation.
As cannabis continues to become more mainstream, studies like this one underscore the importance of individual risk assessment and informed conversations between patients and healthcare providers.
