Cannabis use linked to 37% higher stroke risk in 100-million-person study
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University of Cambridge researchers found cannabis, cocaine, and amphetamines are associated with significantly higher stroke risk, including in people under 55. The meta-analysis pooled data from more than 100 million participants. Cocaine and amphetamine use each roughly doubled stroke risk, while cannabis increased it by 37%.
Key Facts
- Cocaine use was associated with a 96% higher stroke risk and amphetamine use with a 122% higher risk.
- Among people under 55, amphetamine use was linked to a 174% higher stroke risk.
- Opioid use showed no statistically significant association with stroke risk.
- In 2024, 8.8% of adults aged 16–59 in England and Wales reported using a recreational drug in the previous year.
Study Design
Researchers from the University of Cambridge Department of Clinical Neurosciences conducted a meta-analysis covering studies with more than 100 million participants. The results were published in the International Journal of Stroke. The team also used Mendelian randomization to examine whether the relationships might go beyond simple associations.
Stroke Risk by Drug
Cocaine use increased stroke risk by 96% and amphetamine use by 122%. Cannabis use was associated with a 37% higher stroke risk. Opioid use showed no statistically significant association with stroke risk.
Younger Users
Among people under 55, amphetamine use was associated with a 174% higher stroke risk. Cannabis was linked to a 14% higher stroke risk in this group, while cocaine use was associated with a 97% increase.
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Cannabis use linked to 37% higher stroke risk in 100-million-person study
