Cannabis Edibles and Heart Health: New Study Reveals Elevated Cardiovascular Risks

Written By Dr. Mark L. Meyer

As cannabis legalization expands, many individuals turn to edibles, perceiving them as a safer alternative to smoking. However, emerging research challenges this assumption, highlighting potential cardiovascular risks associated with edible cannabis consumption.ucsf.edu

What To Understand About The Study?

A recent study published in JAMA Cardiology by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, examined the effects of chronic cannabis use—both smoked and ingested—on vascular health. The study involved 55 healthy adults aged 18 to 50, divided into three groups: non-users, regular cannabis smokers, and regular edible consumers. Participants had abstained from tobacco and had no significant exposure to secondhand smoke.fox5dc.com

Key findings include:

  • Reduced Vascular Function: Both cannabis smokers and edible users exhibited significant reductions in blood vessel function. Specifically, vascular function was reduced by 42% in smokers and 56% in edible users compared to non-users. 

  • Endothelial Dysfunction: The study identified endothelial dysfunction—a condition where the inner lining of blood vessels doesn't function normally—in both user groups. This dysfunction is a known precursor to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.

What Are The Implications for Cardiovascular Health?

Endothelial dysfunction impairs the ability of blood vessels to dilate, leading to increased blood pressure and reduced blood flow. Over time, this can contribute to the development of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

Notably, the study found that the method of cannabis consumption influenced the type of vascular impairment:

  • Smokers: Exhibited changes in blood serum that negatively affected endothelial cells, similar to the effects observed in tobacco smokers. cardiovascularbusiness.com

  • Edible Users: While they did not show the same serum changes, they still experienced significant reductions in vascular function, suggesting that THC itself may have direct adverse effects on blood vessels

What Is The Broader Context and What Role Does Research Play?

This study adds to a growing body of evidence linking cannabis use to cardiovascular issues. Previous research has indicated that daily cannabis users have a higher risk of heart attack and stroke, regardless of consumption method. sfgate.com

Furthermore, the American Heart Association has previously highlighted concerns about the cardiovascular effects of cannabis, emphasizing the need for awareness and caution among users. people.com

What Are The Recommendations for Patients?

Given these findings, individuals—especially those with existing heart conditions—should consider the following:

  1. Consult Healthcare Providers: Before using cannabis in any form, discuss potential risks with a healthcare professional, particularly if you have a history of cardiovascular disease.

  2. Monitor Usage: Be aware of the frequency and quantity of cannabis consumption. Regular use, even in edible form, may pose health risks.

  3. Stay Informed: As research evolves, stay updated on the latest findings regarding cannabis and heart health.

While cannabis edibles are often viewed as a safer alternative to smoking, emerging research suggests they may carry significant cardiovascular risks. Both smoking and ingesting cannabis can impair vascular function, potentially leading to serious heart-related issues. As with any substance, it's crucial to weigh the benefits against the risks and make informed decisions about consumption.

Sources

  1. Mohammadi, L., et al. (2025). Association of Endothelial Dysfunction With Chronic Marijuana Smoking and THC-Edible Use. JAMA Cardiology. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamacardiology/fullarticle/2834540cardiovascularbusiness.com

  2. Healthline. (2025). Chronic Cannabis Use, Including Edibles, Linked to Endothelial Dysfunction. https://www.healthline.com/health-news/cannabis-edibles-endothelial-dysfunction-cardiovascular-diseasehealthline.com

  3. Verywell Health. (2024). Are Edibles Safer Than Smoking? New Study Sheds Light on Cannabis and Heart Problems. https://www.verywellhealth.com/edibles-vs-smoking-cannabis-heart-problems-8604171verywellhealth.com

  4. UCSF News. (2025). Whether It's Smoking or Edibles, Marijuana Is Bad for Your Heart. https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2025/05/430051/whether-its-smoking-or-edibles-marijuana-bad-your-heartucsf.edu

  5. Cardiovascular Business. (2025). Marijuana Use Linked to Blood Vessel Damage—Impact Seen with Smoking and Edibles. https://cardiovascularbusiness.com/topics/clinical/heart-health/marijuana-use-linked-blood-vessel-damage-impact-seen-smoking-and-edibles

Dr. Mark L. Meyer

Dr. Meyer graduated from Haverford College with a Bachelor of Science, High Honors, in cellular and molecular biology, Phi Beta Kappa, Magna Cum Laude. He attended the Yale University School of Medicine, where he also completed a categorical residency in Internal Medicine, served for one year as an Emergency Department attending physician, and held the title of Clinical Instructor in the Department of Surgery. During this time, Dr. Meyer obtained a J.D. from the Yale Law School, concentrating on medical ethics, scientific research law, and FDA law. He then completed a fellowship in Cardiovascular Diseases at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where he obtained Level 3 Nuclear Cardiology training.

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