by A recent study conducted by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, City University of New York, and Children’s National Hospital at George Washington University has revealed a potential link between cannabis use and asthma prevalence in the United States. The study found that individuals who reported cannabis use in the past 30 days were more likely to have asthma, and the odds of asthma were even higher among those who reported more frequent use.
Previous research on the use of cannabis among youth and its association with asthma has been limited. This study aimed to shed light on this topic and provide valuable insights into the potential risks associated with cannabis use, particularly in relation to respiratory health.
The study utilized data from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an annual survey of 32,893 individuals aged 12 and older in the United States. The researchers analyzed the relationship between the frequency of cannabis and/or blunt (cannabis smoked in a hollowed-out cigar) use in the past 30 days and current asthma. They also took into account demographics and current cigarette smoking when examining this relationship.
The results showed that individuals who reported cannabis use in the most recent 30 days had a higher prevalence of current asthma compared to those who did not use cannabis (10% vs. 7.4%). Furthermore, the odds of asthma were significantly greater among individuals who reported using cannabis 20 to 30 days per month and using blunts 6 to 15 and 20 to 30 days per month.
Notably, the association between cannabis use and asthma prevalence remained significant even after adjusting for cigarette smoking. This suggests that cannabis use may independently contribute to the development or worsening of asthma.
As cannabis use continues to grow in popularity across the United States, understanding its potential links to asthma becomes increasingly important for population health. The findings of this study highlight the need for further collaborative research by experts in the fields of cannabis use and respiratory health to fully comprehend this relationship.
The researchers emphasize that their study adds a significant layer to the current research on the potential harms associated with cannabis use. It is the first study to demonstrate a link between cannabis use in the community and increased asthma prevalence. By examining asthma prevalence in both adolescents and adults, the study provides valuable insights that can inform public health initiatives and policies aimed at mitigating the risks associated with cannabis use and respiratory health.
The authors of the study include researchers from various institutions, including Columbia University, City University of New York, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and City College of New York. Their collaboration underscores the importance of investigating the interplay between cannabis use and respiratory health to protect public health and promote well-being.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
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