New Study Finds Higher Levels of Metal Contaminants in Marijuana Users
A recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives has found that exclusive marijuana users have higher levels of metal contaminants in their blood and urine compared to non-users. The study, titled “Blood and Urinary Metal Levels among Exclusive Marijuana Users in NHANES (2005–2018),” analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2005 and 2018.
Marijuana is one of the most commonly used drugs globally, with millions of people in the United States alone using it. However, its federal illegality in the U.S. contrasts with the growing number of states legalizing it for recreational and medical use.
The cannabis plant is known to absorb metals from the soil, fertilizers, water, and pesticides. Previous studies have detected high concentrations of metals in unfiltered marijuana smoke and vaping devices. These contaminants, such as cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and total mercury (Hg), pose health risks and are associated with increased cancer and cardiopulmonary diseases.
The study analyzed the presence of metal contaminants in the blood and urine samples of 10,921 participants from the NHANES dataset. The participants were aged 18 and older. The concentrations of metals were assessed using advanced analytical techniques, including inductively coupled plasma dynamic reaction cell mass spectrometry (ICP-DRC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
The findings revealed that exclusive marijuana users had higher levels of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in their blood and urine compared to non-users. In particular, those who had used marijuana within the past seven days of the sample collection exhibited higher Cd and Pb levels. Exclusive tobacco users also had higher Cd levels compared to exclusive marijuana users, potentially due to differences in frequency of use or differential accumulation in tobacco and cannabis plants.
The study also found higher levels of mercury (Hg) in exclusive marijuana users, which decreased with increasing time since the last use. Exclusive tobacco use was associated with higher concentrations of other metals, such as antimony, barium, tungsten, and uranium.
The research suggests that the presence of metal contaminants in marijuana poses health risks to consumers. Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term effects of these metals on human health. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of regulating and monitoring metal levels in marijuana products to protect consumers.
In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the levels of metal contaminants in marijuana users and emphasizes the need for awareness and regulation regarding these risks in the cannabis industry.