As cannabis use becomes increasingly common around the world, understanding its impact on lung health has become an urgent priority for both physicians and the public. While tobacco smoking has been extensively studied and linked to serious respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the long-term effects of cannabis smoking remain far less clear. This is due to several factors, including the legal status of cannabis in many countries, the frequent overlap of tobacco and cannabis use, and the variability in how cannabis is consumed. Recent research has begun to shed light on the issue, revealing both important differences and surprising similarities between cannabis and tobacco. While cannabis smoke contains many of the same harmful compounds as tobacco smoke, some findings suggest it may not affect lung function in the same way, raising questions about its unique effects and potential risks.
Key Facts:
- Cannabis is the second most smoked substance worldwide, following tobacco.
- Both cannabis and tobacco can cause chronic bronchitis symptoms such as persistent cough, sputum production, wheezing, and chest tightness.
- Unlike tobacco, cannabis smoking is not consistently linked to reduced lung function (FEV1/FVC ratio).
- Some studies indicate cannabis may increase forced vital capacity (FVC), possibly due to bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Serious conditions like bullous lung disease and barotrauma have been documented in cannabis users, though mostly in smaller studies and case reports.
- Long-term data remain limited, hindered by legal barriers, variable strains, and confounding tobacco use.
Although cannabis may not mirror tobacco’s destructive effects on lung function, it is far from harmless. With gaps in research and reports of specific respiratory risks, more rigorous long-term studies are urgently needed. Until then, healthcare providers and individuals alike should remain cautious, recognizing that while cannabis and tobacco differ, both carry potential dangers for lung health.
**远离大麻，保持健康-Stay away from cannabis, maintain your health.**
Reference: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5072387/
