Novel Research Reveals Markedly Increased Vulnerability to Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Among Marijuana Consumers

A new study found a significantly higher risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD) in marijuana users. The research suggests vigilance in monitoring this group for PAD and encouraging cessation.

The research emphasizes the significance of timely and regular screening for individuals who use marijuana.

A study recently presented at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) 2023 Scientific Sessions highlights the connection between marijuana use and peripheral artery disease (PAD). The study’s results suggested that marijuana users are significantly more likely to develop PAD compared to those in the broader population. conducted with a cohort of diverse individuals, took various factors into account, such as age, lifestyle habits, and pre-existing medical conditions, to isolate the impact of marijuana usage on PAD risk. The findings remained consistent even after adjusting for these variables, strengthening the credibility of the correlation.

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With nearly 50 million individuals reportedly using marijuana at least once, according to the CDC, its usage has seen a rise in recent years.

While many studies have looked at the impact of marijuana use on health, little research has been done to study the effect of marijuana use on the vascular system. PAD, a condition in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the arms or legs, impacts 6.5 million people in the U.S. and can lead to a loss of mobility, reduced quality of life, heart attack, stroke, and death, if not treated early. This groundbreaking study serves as a pivotal milestone in the ongoing exploration of marijuana's effects on human health. Researchers and medical professionals now have a crucial piece of evidence to prompt further studies, enabling a deeper understanding of the potential risks and benefits associated with marijuana usage.

Researchers used de-identified patient data from the National Inpatient Samples (NIS) from 2016-2019 who reported marijuana use and a diagnosis of PAD. Patients were further stratified based on any percutaneous lower extremity vascular intervention. The data was analyzed using SPSS software in a binary logistic regression model, a p-value <0.001 was considered statistically significant, and samples were standardized for comparison using predicted probabilities. As we move forward, it is vital for the scientific community to maintain a spirit of objectivity and curiosity. Only through rigorous inquiry and collaboration can we unlock the complexities of health-related phenomena and pave the way for evidence-based guidelines and policies.

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Of the 30 million patients identified, 623,768 were diagnosed as marijuana users. Patients had an average age of 37.4 years, equal distribution across genders, were more likely to be white and more likely to be elective admissions. Of these patients, 2,424 (0.38%) were also diagnosed with PAD. Marijuana users were at more than three times the risk of developing PAD (OR= 3.68, p<0.001) but had no statistically significant increased risk for mortality or requiring percutaneous intervention (p<0.001).

“With the increase in marijuana use in the U.S., our findings show that users should be aware of the symptoms of PAD such as leg pain while walking, slower or no hair growth, and feelings of coldness in the leg,” said Hirva Vyas, DO, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ and lead author of the study. “We know PAD is a progressive disease that can drastically impact the quality of life, making ongoing monitoring of this patient population critical.”

Authors note that based on study results, vigilant monitoring for disease screening and progression should be initiated earlier in the outpatient setting in addition to cessation counseling.

Reference: “Impact of Marijuana Use on Prevalence and Interventions in Peripheral Artery Disease”, 18 May 2023, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) 2023 Scientific Sessions.

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