Regular cannabis use increases the risk of bone disease, according to the results of a study published in the American Journal of Medicine. Smokers are said to have a lower body weight and reduced body mass index (BMI), which could contribute to the weakening of their bones.
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland conducted a comparative study with 170 regular cannabis users and 144 non-smokers to determine if there was a link between recreational marijuana and bone disease.
“We have known for a long time that the constituents of cannabis can have an effect on the functioning of the bone cells. However, we had no idea until today how this translates in those who smoke it regularly”, explains Stuart Ralston, author of the study.
Cannabis promotes low bone density
The team used a specialized x-ray technique called a DEXA scan to measure the bone density of study participants. They found that the bone density of cannabis users was about 5% lower than that of cigarette smokers who did not use marijuana. Fractures were also more common in heavy users compared to non-users. On the other hand, scientists have observed no difference between moderate smokers and non-smokers. “Our research has shown that heavy cannabis users have a large reduction in bone density compared to non-users and there is concern that this may increase the risk of developing.osteoporosis and fractures later in life “, concludes the researcher.
While this study is the first to investigate bone health in cannabis users, more research is needed to better understand the link between cannabis use and lower bone density.
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