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Preliminary research presented at the AHA's Scientific Sessions 2026 in Chicago linked occasional marijuana use to 40% higher odds of reporting stroke among more than 440,000 American adults. ScienceDaily reported the findings on November 11, 2026. The study used the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, a large telephone survey, with data from 2020 to 2024, and was led by Aabha Divya of Tulane University. The association appeared across smoked and edible products and was not limited to frequent users, since both low-use and heavy-use groups had higher odds. Researchers have not established that cannabis directly causes strokes or heart disease, and they say even infrequent use may warrant concern. Divya urged that cannabis be discussed alongside tobacco and alcohol in heart health conversations. ScienceDaily reported that Robert L. Page II, who was not involved in the study, said the findings add to concerns about marijuana's cardiovascular effects, noting that many cannabis users also smoke tobacco, which clouds the picture.