Puff or Pass? Exploring the Link Between Marijuana and Lung Cancer

Marijuana laws are still undergoing rapid changes across different states in the U.S. Studies have found that the legalization of marijuana has led to an increase in its use by about 20%. Interestingly, this coincided with a decline in cigarette smoking. In 2022, 16% of Americans reported that they had used marijuana in the past week compared to 11% who smoked tobacco cigarettes.

Given the popularity of marijuana, there has been concern about its potential impact on lung health. This article will focus on the impact of recreational marijuana on lung health and whether it contributes to an elevated risk of developing lung cancer. Medical marijuana and its potential effects on lung health are not within the scope of this discussion.

The association between smoking marijuana and an elevated risk of developing lung cancer remains a topic of ongoing investigation. While some studies suggest that smoking marijuana could lead to lung damage, the extent of this risk seems less severe than smoking tobacco, despite marijuana smoke containing carcinogenic combustion products. Nonetheless, the existing scientific data on the direct link between marijuana smoking and lung cancer is not as comprehensive as it is for tobacco. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported deaths from vaping marijuana which may contain adulterated marijuana.

This complexity arises from several factors:

1. Many marijuana users also smoke tobacco, making it difficult to pinpoint the precise cause of any resulting health conditions
2. The strong evidence base that connects tobacco smoking to an increased risk of lung cancer took substantial time to establish. Similar studies that aim to show epidemiological evidence are highly challenging due to the relatively recent surge in its popularity
3. The evolving legal status of marijuana in the United States has influenced the availability of accurate data, given its historical illegality
4. The product composition and delivery method of cigarettes are generally established. In contrast, marijuana can be smoked in various compositions and modes of delivery. This makes it more intricate to measure and analyze the health effects systematically

The investigation into the association between tobacco smoking and lung cancer can be traced back to the 1920s and 1930s. In 1959, the American Cancer Society conducted one of the most influential and notable investigations that proved this association. Researchers surveyed smoking habits and other lifestyle factors of over 187,000 men and then tracked their health outcomes over 3-5 years.

Such studies are needed to demonstrate the link between marijuana smoking and an elevated lung cancer risk.

All forms of smoke are harmful to our lungs, be it from tobacco, marijuana, vaporized substances, or combusted sources like wood fires.

According to the American Lung Association, smoking marijuana can indeed lead to lung damage. Unlike tobacco cigarettes, marijuana is usually smoked without filtration, which means that a higher concentration of particulates can reach the airways, causing potential harm. It is important to take necessary precautions to protect our lungs from the harmful effects of smoke.

The health consequences of marijuana smoking include:

• Emphysema – A form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that causes breathing difficulty; approximately three-quarters of marijuana smokers may experience emphysema
• Airway inflammation (chronic bronchitis) – Occasional marijuana smokers are at risk of harming their lungs
• Gynecomastia - Development of breast tissue in 38% of marijuana smokers due to hormone imbalance
• Coronary artery calcification – Buildup of calcium in coronary arteries, a common health condition among marijuana and tobacco users

Marijuana smoking and its link to lung cancer remains vague. While the link between the two remains unclear, what is evident is that long-term use of marijuana can increase the risk of chronic lung conditions like COPD. COPD is a known risk factor for lung cancer, and as such, it is crucial to exercise caution when smoking marijuana. If you experience any respiratory issues, you should seek advice from a medical professional promptly. By doing so, you can gain a better understanding of your lung health and assess your risk of developing lung cancer.

While no concrete proof establishes a direct connection, the association of marijuana use with acute diseases is evident. These days, more adults are smoking marijuana recreationally. A 2021 study found that over 44% of people believed that marijuana smoking is somewhat safer, while only 25% thought that tobacco was safer. This perception is concerning, considering the well-documented acute health hazards linked with marijuana usage, while the potential long-term health implications remain unaddressed.

When asked if smoking weed causes lung cancer, Dr Powell says, “My advice is not to smoke, period.” Dr. Charles A. Powell, MD, is the Professor of Medicine and System Division Chief for Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York.

Related: New updates of lung cancer risk factors that you need to know