That said, studies continue to reveal new findings about the risks associated with smoking marijuana.
What’s less clear are the long-term effects of marijuana use.
On the other hand, some evidence pointed to marijuana use having a protective effect.
Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin
None was found between cannabis use andsquamous cell carcinomaof the lungs.
There are reasons beyond lung cancer risk to avoid marijuana, which remains illegal in many states.
The effects may increase when marijuana is smoked, adding toxins that also are harmful.
Smoking marijuana may help some people cope with cancer.
According to the National Cancer Institute, “cannabinoids may have benefits in treating cancer-related side effects.
So the potential of cannabinoids in cancer treatment deserves much further study.
The difficulty in studying an illegal substance has limited research.
Secondhand Marijuana Smoke
Marijuana use also may have secondhand smoke effects.
People report wheezing, coughing, and other respiratory symptoms with marijuana use.
Some evidence shows that it can lead to precancerous changes in the lungs.
However, questions remain about long-term damage.
If using marijuana, you may wish to consider edibles and other alternatives.
The opioid crisis has added to concerns that people facing cancer-related pain are undertreated.
2016 Sep 29;17(1):45. doi:10.1186/s40360-016-0085-6.
National Cancer Institute.Cannabis and Cannabinoids (PDQ)Health Professional Version.
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