Is Cannabis Better for you than Cigarettes?

While both cannabis and tobacco smoking can have detrimental effects on respiratory health, current scientific evidence suggests that tobacco smoking is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) compared to cannabis smoking. COPD is a progressive lung disease characterized by airflow limitation and breathing difficulties.

Why? Because Tobacco smoke contains numerous harmful chemicals, including nicotine, formaldehyde and tar. These three substances themselves are all very toxic and they can have various negative effects on the lungs:

1. Nicotine: Nicotine is an addictive substance found in tobacco products, including cigarettes. It is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs when smoked. While nicotine itself is not directly responsible for the damage to the lungs, it is highly addictive and keeps people hooked on smoking, leading to continued exposure to other harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke.

2. Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a toxic gas that is released when tobacco is burned. It is a known human carcinogen and a respiratory irritant. When inhaled, formaldehyde can irritate the lining of the respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can cause damage to the lining of the airways and increase the risk of developing respiratory conditions.

3. Tar: Tar is a sticky, brown substance that is produced when tobacco is burned. It contains numerous toxic chemicals, including carcinogens. Tar particles can deposit in the airways and lungs, leading to inflammation and damage to the lung tissue. Over time, this can contribute to the development of respiratory conditions such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and lung cancer.

Cannabis smoke, on the other hand, can contain some of the same toxic compounds depending on the strain, way it is cultivated or consumed. Typically in much smaller amounts. However, research on the association between cannabis smoking and COPD is less extensive than for tobacco smoking. Some studies have suggested a potential link between long-term heavy cannabis smoking and respiratory symptoms, bronchitis, and airway inflammation, but the evidence is not as conclusive as it is for tobacco smoking and COPD.

Do you smoke or use Cannabis? How has either affected your health?

Like the info that you are receiving, if you have not already, Sign Up to receive our Newsletter at First Medical Shop or The Buzz