10, 2022 — Despite the perception that marijuana is harmless, there is some scientific evidence challenging that belief, and there are many unanswered questions about its impact on brain health, according to a new American Heart Association scientific statement published today in the Association’s journal Stroke.
This scientific statement is intended to guide health care professionals in having a balanced and intentional discussion with patients about the potential known and unknown effects of marijuana on brain health,” said writing group Chair Fernando D.
is increasing, particularly among adolescents and young adults, with about one-third of 12th graders and nearly half of college students reporting marijuana use in 2018.
The U.S.
To fully understand the potential impact of marijuana, it’s important to know that the human body naturally produces compounds called endocannabinoids that are similar to those in marijuana.
Endocannabinoids, as well as THC, can attach to neurons in the brain through molecules called cannabinoid receptors.
“Data obtained in these animal studies demonstrate that disruption of endocannabinoid pathways leads to behavioral and cognitive abnormalities, such as poorer memory and learning ability and a heightened sensitivity to stress.
While the exact timing and amount of marijuana exposure are more easily controlled in animal studies, as well as controlling the animals’ social and environmental conditions, human research studies cannot replicate similar strict parameters.
“Our understanding of the effects of marijuana on the brain is imperfect, and human research in this area is a work in progress.
This scientific statement was prepared by the volunteer writing group on behalf of the American Heart Association’s Stroke Brain Health Science Subcommittee of the Stroke Council; the Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology; the Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing; the Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health; and the Council on Peripheral Vascular Disease.
American Heart Association scientific statements promote greater awareness about cardiovascular diseases and stroke issues and help facilitate informed health care decisions.
Piano, R.N., Ph.D.; Tiziana Rubino, Ph.D.; and Sarah Y.
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