Heavy and regular cannabis use may carry unforeseen health risks.
According to a recent study, individuals with cannabis use disorder (CUD) could be at a higher risk for certain head and neck cancers. This finding, although preliminary, raises questions about the long-term effects of this substance on the body.
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The analysis was based on the medical records of over 116,000 American adults over a 20-year period, highlighting a troubling correlation between CUD and the development of cancers of the mouth, throat, and salivary glands. These patients were 3.5 to 5 times more likely to develop these diseases compared to individuals without this disorder.
Researchers used data from TriNetX, a large database of information from 64 healthcare centers in the United States, to conduct this study. They compared people with CUD to a control group matched in age and sex, considering known risk factors such as alcohol and tobacco use, which are primary culprits for head and neck cancers.
One of the study's limitations is that it does not differentiate between the various methods of cannabis consumption, whether through inhalation or ingestion. It remains unclear if it is the smoke or the active compounds in cannabis responsible for the increased risk. Nevertheless, the study authors emphasize the importance of these results for cancer prevention.
Although the exact doses of cannabis consumed by participants are unknown and the data rely on self-reports, the results highlight a potential increase in cancers linked to the rising use of cannabis, especially with its legalization and more widespread consumption.
The implications of this study are serious, although it is still too early to assert a definitive link. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and determine if cannabis plays a direct role in carcinogenesis.
Carcinogenesis
Carcinogenesis refers to the entirety of biological processes that lead to cancer formation. This term encompasses the mechanisms by which normal cells undergo progressive transformations to become cancerous. This complex process unfolds in several stages, involving genetic mutations, DNA alterations, and changes in cellular regulation.
The process often begins with initiation, where mutations or DNA damage occur, typically due to carcinogenic substances (chemical agents, radiation, viruses, etc.). Subsequently, mutated cells undergo abnormal proliferation, driven by growth signals or a favorable environment. Finally, the progression leads to these cells acquiring invasive capabilities and forming malignant tumors.
Carcinogenesis is influenced by numerous factors, including exposure to carcinogens, genetic predispositions, and environmental conditions, making its study crucial for cancer prevention and treatment.