Cannabis Use Tied to Higher Stroke and Cardiovascular Risk

A new study of nearly 450,000 American adults found a link between cannabis use and an increased risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.

The research, scheduled for presentation at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2026, analyzed survey data from 2020 to 2024 through the CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

Participants who used cannabis one to five days per month had 23% higher odds of reporting a history of cardiovascular disease compared to non-users.

Low-frequency users had 40% higher odds of a reported stroke, while heavy users had 25% higher odds. The study found no statistically significant link between cannabis use and heart attacks.

The method of consumption—whether smoked, vaped, or ingested—did not affect the risk levels, according to the researchers.

Lead author Dr. Aabha Divya noted the link between cannabis use and cardiovascular disease was not straightforward, as both low-use and heavy-use groups showed higher odds of heart disease.