Study Regular cannabis use lowers bone density

Researchers warn of reduced bone density in heavy cannabis use
In many cases, possible negative effects of excessive cannabis consumption have already been discussed in the past. Now, researchers from the University of Edinburgh have found in a recent study that the regular use of cannabis attacks the bone, which is associated with an increased risk of fractures and the subsequent development of osteoporosis.

"People who regularly smoke large amounts of cannabis have reduced bone density and are more susceptible to fractures," according to the Edinburgh University Communication. Furthermore, the current study found that regular cannabis use is associated with lower body weight and body mass index (BMI), which could further thinning the bones. The study results were published in the journal "The American Journal of Medicine".

Excessive cannabis use has a significant impact on bone density and may increase the risk of osteoporosis. (Image: zix777 / fotolia.com)

Some subjects had consumed cannabis more than 47,000 times
For their study, researchers at the University of Edinburgh examined 170 volunteers who routinely smoked cannabis in their spare time and 114 cigarette smokers who did not consume cannabis. The cannabis users were divided into two groups: moderate users and strong users. As moderate consumers, subjects were defined who had previously smoked cannabis less than 5,000 times in their lives. All study participants who had already used cannabis more frequently were assigned to the group of strong users. Among the moderate users, their average daily use has been around 1,000 times in their lifetime, while among the strong users there have also been subjects who have taken cannabis more than 47,000 times, the researchers report.

Bone density of strong users around five percent lower
Using a special X-ray technique (DEXA scan), the research team led by Professor Stuart Ralston from the University of Edinburgh determined the bone density of study participants. Strong cannabis users showed a lower mineral density in the hipbone and spinous process of the spinal column. Overall, the bone density of heavy cannabis consumers was about five percent lower than that of the control group of cigarette smokers, the researchers report. In addition, the strong consumers had already more than twice as often suffered a fracture.

Osteoporosis risk increased?
"Our research has shown that heavy users of cannabis have a fairly large reduction in bone density compared to non-users, and there is a well-founded concern that this may increase the risk of developing osteoporosis and later-life fractures." Prof. Ralston the study results together. For the moderate users, however, no difference to the non-users has shown. The study is the first bone health survey among cannabis consumers and further research is needed to better understand the link between drug use and reduced bone density.

Lower body weight and lower BMI
The scientists were also surprised to find that strong cannabis users tended to have lower body weight and body mass index (BMI) than non-users. Although cannabis use is often associated with an increased appetite, it has clearly shown a reduced body weight among the strong users. "This may be because cannabis can reduce appetite when taken in large quantities over a long period of time," the researchers suggest. (Fp)