A large-scale analysis involving more than 100 million people has found strong links between recreational drug use and an increased risk of stroke, even among younger adults.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge, found that cocaine use was associated with a 96 percent increase in the risk of stroke, while amphetamine use was linked to a 122 percent increase.
Cannabis use was associated with a 37 percent increased risk.
The findings, published in the International Journal of Stroke, add to growing evidence that recreational drug use may be an important and potentially preventable risk factor for stroke.
Stroke remains one of the leading causes of death and disability in the world. While established risk factors include high blood pressure, poor diet and physical inactivity, researchers say substance use can also significantly contribute to the burden of disease.
The researchers separately examined people under age 55 and found particularly strong associations between some recreational drugs and stroke.
Among younger adults, amphetamine use was associated with a 174 percent increase in stroke risk, while cocaine use was associated with a 97 percent increase. Cannabis was associated with a more modest 14 percent increase.
The study drew on data from multiple cohort studies and combined their findings using a meta-analysis, allowing researchers to examine evidence involving more than 100 million participants.
The researchers also used Mendelian randomization, a genetic analysis technique, to investigate whether the observed relationships could indicate a causal connection rather than simply an association.
READ ALSO: Oyo govt empowers girls with health education, vocational skills
Genetic evidence provided further support for a link between cocaine use and certain types of strokes, particularly brain hemorrhage and cardioembolic stroke. Cannabis use disorders were associated with stroke in general and large artery stroke in particular.
Scientists say several biological mechanisms could explain the increased risk.
Recreational drugs can cause surges in blood pressure, blood vessel spasms, abnormal heart rhythms, increased blood clotting, and inflammation, all of which can contribute to stroke.
Genetic analysis further suggested that cocaine and cannabis may have a causal relationship with certain types of stroke, rather than simply being associated with them.
The study also found links between problematic alcohol use and certain types of stroke, although alcohol was analyzed separately from the recreational drugs examined.
Dr Megan Ritson, from the Stroke Research Group at the University of Cambridge, said the findings represent the most comprehensive analysis to date of recreational drug use and stroke risk.
Dr Eric Harshfield, an Alzheimer’s Society researcher at Cambridge’s Department of Clinical Neurosciences, said the results suggested that the medications themselves, and not just other lifestyle factors associated with drug use, could be contributing to the increased risk.
The researchers said the findings could help guide future research and inform public health strategies aimed at reducing substance use and, consequently, the risk of stroke.
WATCH THE BEST VIDEOS FROM Newslodge TV