100,000 people tested. 400% higher risk of illness among marijuana users.

• An analysis of data from over 4 million people found an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in marijuana users.
• The Boston Medical Center study included nearly 100,000 patients aged 18-50.
• Scientists Call for Education on Marijuana's Health Risks

The results of the analysis were presented at the annual meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes in Vienna.

The authors of the study from Boston Medical Center (USA) analyzed the electronic records of nearly 100,000 patients aged 18-50 who admitted to using marijuana. Some of them used it occasionally, while others reported it as an addiction.

This group was then compared with over 4 million people who had never used the drug. All participants were followed for five years.

During this time, diabetes developed in 2.2% of marijuana users and 0.6% of the control group. After accounting for other risk factors, such as elevated cholesterol levels, hypertension, heart disease, and alcohol abuse, the researchers calculated that the risk of developing type 2 diabetes was nearly four times higher in marijuana users.

“With the increasing availability and social acceptance of marijuana, it is important to understand the health risks it may pose,” said Dr. Ibrahim Kamel , lead author of the study.

In his opinion, in light of the results obtained, people using this psychoactive substance should be educated that they may be at greater risk of developing diabetes.

The study's authors emphasized, however, that their work does not directly prove that marijuana causes diabetes, but only indicates a clear correlation. However, they emphasized that given the study's large sample size, caution should be exercised when using it. It's worth educating patients and physicians on this topic and confirming this finding with further, long-term studies.

Globally, marijuana use continues to grow. In 2021, it was estimated that 219 million people, or 4.3% of the adult population, used the drug. Despite research, the long-term metabolic effects of marijuana use remain unknown. Some scientific reports suggest potential anti-inflammatory or weight management properties, while others raise concerns about glucose metabolism and insulin resistance.

Copyrighted material - reprint rules are specified in the regulations .