Assessing the association between cannabis use frequency and heart disease in adults aged under 50: National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2021-2023

Objective: Cannabis use has increased among younger adults in the United States alongside rising rates of heart disease. This study examines the association between cannabis use frequency and heart disease among adults aged 18–49. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of 88,166 United States adults aged 18–49 was conducted using 2021–2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health data. Cannabis use frequency was measured as days of cannabis use in the past year. A weighted logistic regression model estimated the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for heart disease, controlling for demographics, smoking, and heavy drinking. Additionally, A dose-response analysis was performed to further assess the relationship. Results: Cannabis users had significantly higher odds of heart disease compared to non-users. Each 90-day increase in cannabis use was associated with 9 % higher odds of heart disease (aOR: 1.09; 95 % Confidence Interval: 1.03, 1.15). Daily users had 40 % higher odds of heart disease compared to non-users (aOR = 1.40; 95 % Confidence Interval: 1.11, 1.76). A clear dose-response relationship was observed. Conclusions: Cannabis use frequency is significantly associated with higher odds of heart disease among US adults under 50. Findings demonstrate a positive linear relationship and indicate cannabis use as a potential modifiable risk factor for early-onset heart disease.