Cannabis use disorder is associated with increased incidence of peripheral arterial disease complications like acute and chronic limb ischemia, exacerbated by vascular mechanisms.
Does cannabis use increase the risk of developing or progressing lower limb peripheral arterial disease?
Cannabis use may represent an under-recognized risk factor for peripheral arterial disease and acute limb ischemia, warranting clinical vigilance particularly in younger patients.
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ABSTRACT Background The recent legalisation of cannabis for recreational use in several Australian states, alongside similar global trends, has heightened interest in its potential vascular health implications. While the psychoactive and neurological effects of cannabis are well characterised, its role in the pathogenesis of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) remains poorly defined. Emerging evidence suggests that cannabis may contribute to acute limb ischaemia (ALI) and chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI) through distinct vascular mechanisms. Methods A narrative review of the literature was undertaken, incorporating epidemiological data, clinical studies and mechanistic investigations. Particular emphasis was placed on pathophysiological processes relevant to arterial compromise and their association with cannabis use disorder (CUD). Evidence was synthesised to highlight epidemiological trends and surgical management considerations. Results Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain cannabis‐associated vascular risk, including cannabinoid‐induced vasospasm, endothelial dysfunction, platelet aggregation and oxidative stress. Lifestyle factors and comorbidities frequently observed among cannabis users may further potentiate these processes. Epidemiological studies demonstrate associations between CUD and increased incidence of PAD‐related complications, particularly ALI and CLTI. Limited clinical data also suggest potential adverse perioperative outcomes, though findings are inconsistent and often confounded by concurrent substance use. Conclusion Cannabis use may represent an under‐recognised risk factor for PAD and related vascular complications. With legalisation expanding in Australia and internationally, clinicians should maintain vigilance, particularly in younger patients presenting with lower limb ischaemia. Further prospective research is required to delineate causal mechanisms, quantify risk and inform evidence‐based management strategies.
Lee et al. (Thu,) reported a other. Cannabis use disorder is associated with increased incidence of peripheral arterial disease complications like acute and chronic limb ischemia, exacerbated by vascular mechanisms.