A recent study presented at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) 2023 Scientific Sessions has shed light on the correlation between marijuana use and peripheral artery disease (PAD). The findings highlight a significantly elevated risk of PAD among marijuana users when compared to the general population, underscoring the importance of monitoring this group for early detection and promoting cessation.
The study, conducted using de-identified patient data from the National Inpatient Samples (NIS) spanning 2016-2019, analyzed individuals who reported marijuana use and were diagnosed with PAD. The researchers also examined the necessity of percutaneous lower extremity vascular intervention in these patients. Utilizing SPSS software and applying a binary logistic regression model, the data was subjected to statistical analysis. A p-value <0.001 was considered statistically significant, and comparisons were standardized using predicted probabilities.
Out of the identified 30 million patients, 623,768 were marijuana users, with an average age of 37.4 years and an equal distribution across genders. It was observed that marijuana users were more likely to be white and admitted electively. Among these individuals, 2,424 (0.38%) were diagnosed with PAD. Notably, marijuana users faced over three times the risk of developing PAD compared to non-users (OR= 3.68, p<0.001). However, there was no statistically significant increase in mortality or the need for percutaneous intervention among marijuana users (p<0.001).
Given the rising usage of marijuana, with an estimated 50 million individuals having used it at least once according to the CDC, understanding its impact on health is crucial. While prior research has examined various health effects of marijuana, the vascular system has received little attention. PAD, a condition characterized by narrowed arteries impeding blood flow to the limbs, affects approximately 6.5 million people in the U.S. If left untreated, PAD can lead to mobility loss, diminished quality of life, heart attack, stroke, and even death.
Dr. Hirva Vyas, the lead author of the study from Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, emphasized the need for awareness among marijuana users regarding PAD symptoms, such as leg pain while walking, reduced hair growth, and sensations of coldness in the leg. Recognizing PAD as a progressive disease with a profound impact on quality of life, Vyas stressed the critical importance of ongoing monitoring for individuals using marijuana.
The authors of the study recommend initiating diligent disease screening and progression monitoring in the outpatient setting, along with providing cessation counseling, based on the study’s outcomes.
Reference: “Impact of Marijuana Use on Prevalence and Interventions in Peripheral Artery Disease,” 18 May 2023, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) 2023 Scientific Sessions.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about marijuana users, peripheral artery disease (PAD), monitoring, cessation
What is the main finding of the study?
The main finding of the study is that marijuana users are more than three times likely to develop Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) compared to the general population.
What is Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)?
Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a condition where narrowed arteries restrict blood flow to the limbs, leading to symptoms such as leg pain while walking, reduced hair growth, and sensations of coldness in the leg. If left untreated, PAD can result in mobility loss, decreased quality of life, heart attack, stroke, and even death.
How was the study conducted?
The study utilized de-identified patient data from the National Inpatient Samples (NIS) between 2016 and 2019. Researchers analyzed the data of individuals who reported marijuana use and had a diagnosis of PAD. The statistical analysis included a binary logistic regression model to determine the risk factors.
How many marijuana users were included in the study?
Out of the 30 million patients identified in the study, 623,768 were marijuana users. They had an average age of 37.4 years, with an equal distribution across genders.
Were there any other significant findings in the study?
While the study identified a significantly higher risk of PAD in marijuana users, there was no statistically significant increased risk for mortality or requiring invasive interventions in this group.
What are the implications of this study?
This study highlights the importance of monitoring marijuana users for early detection of PAD and emphasizes the need to promote cessation among this population. It also suggests that individuals who use marijuana should be aware of the symptoms of PAD and seek timely medical attention if they experience leg pain, reduced hair growth, or feelings of coldness in the leg.
More about marijuana users, peripheral artery disease (PAD), monitoring, cessation
- Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) 2023 Scientific Sessions: [Link](insert link here)
- National Inpatient Samples (NIS): [Link](insert link here)
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) Overview: [Link](insert link here)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Marijuana Use Statistics: [Link](insert link here)
5 comments
wow! ths study shws dat ppl who smok marijuna r 3X more likely 2 get PAD! dat’s crazzy! monitring is super imp n dey shud quit smokin!
Great study findings! It’s essential 2 monitor marijuana users 4 early signs of PAD. Thanks 2 SCAI 4 this research n highlighting the need 4 cessation counseling. Let’s spread the word!
dude, did u hear abt dis study? it says marijuna users hav a high risk of gettin PAD. dat’s no good, man. we gotta watch out n quit if we wanna stay healthy!
Fascinating research on the link btwn marijuana use n PAD. Impressive use of patient data from NIS. Time 2 raise awareness n encourage cessation among users. Good job!
whoa, hold up! dis study says smokin weed puts u at risk of PAD. i had no idea! gotta keep an eye out 4 symptoms, like leg pain. stay safe, peeps!