Cannabis addiction Linked to Higher Head and Neck Cancer Risk
Cannabis, widely known as marijuana or weed, is a largely recreational drug derived from the cannabis plant. According to a recent study by researchers from Keck Medicine of USC published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, individuals with cannabis-related disorders carry a significantly higher risk of developing various types of head and neck cancers.
The study analysed data from over 4 million people to conclude that those with cannabis-related disorders had 3.49 times higher risk of head and neck cancer overall. The risk was particularly high for certain subtypes, with laryngeal cancer risk increased by 8.39 times and oropharyngeal cancer risk by 4.9 times. These elevated risks persisted even when researchers looked at cancer diagnoses occurring at least one year after the initial cannabis-related disorder diagnosis.
The study authors suggest that the inflammatory effects of cannabis smoke, which is typically unfiltered and inhaled more deeply than tobacco smoke, may be a key factor in this increased cancer risk. The higher burning temperature of cannabis compared to tobacco may also contribute to inflammatory injury in the head and neck region.
While this study provides key insights, the researchers have acknowledged its limitations such as lack of information on frequency and dosage of cannabis use, as also the need for deeper research to get more clarity on the specifics of the said link. Given the rampant use of cannabis, the study underlines the criticality of informed decision-making regarding cannabis consumption and awareness about its potential health risks.
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MBBS MS ENT Surgeon ? Head and Neck Cancer Aahire's ENT Superspeciality Center - Ear Nose Throat Specialist In Nashik
1 个月very informative , need more research paper on this
Thank you for sharing this important research. Our team Jarurat Care Foundation is concerned about the potential long-term health impacts of cannabis use. Understanding the link between cannabis-related disorders and increased risk of head and neck cancers is crucial as we work to promote informed health choices. We look forward to further studies that will shed more light on this topic.