The myth about the impact of smoking marijuana on the lungs
It is common to believe that smoking marijuana does not negatively affect the lungs, but recent studies have challenged this perception.
New findings on the combined impact of smoking marijuana and tobacco
Recent research presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America reveals that the combination of smoking marijuana and tobacco could cause greater damage to the lung alveoli.
Prospective and multicenter study
A prospective, multicenter study examined chest computed tomography images of four groups of patients: nonsmokers, cigarette smokers, marijuana smokers, and combined marijuana and cigarette smokers.
Impact on the lung alveoli
People who combined marijuana and cigarettes were 12 times more likely to have centrilobular emphysema than non-smokers of both substances.
Respiratory effects
The combination of cigarette smoking and marijuana may have a synergistic role in the lungs and airways, increasing the risk of thickening of the airway walls and other complications.
Expert perspective
Expert pulmonologists have highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the physical effects of smoking marijuana on the lungs, as well as the combined harmful impact of smoking cigarettes and marijuana.
Analysis of a pulmonologist and gerontologist
Dr. José Manuel Viudes highlights that the combination of marijuana and tobacco generates greater damage to the lungs, with significant effects on the aging of the respiratory system.
Final considerations
It is crucial to inform young people about the risks of smoking marijuana and tobacco, as well as the negative consequences of combining both substances for lung health.