A recent study conducted by researchers from The University of Western Australia has uncovered a disturbing link between cannabis consumption and an increased risk of cancer. Published in Addiction Biology, the study reveals that prolonged cannabis use can cause significant cellular damage, which may accelerate the risk of developing cancer.

The research team has categorized cannabis as a ‘genotoxic substance,’ meaning it can damage the genetic material within cells. This genetic damage can lead to DNA mutations, which are known to cause accelerated ageing and contribute to the development of cancer over time. According to the study’s findings, this process may have more far-reaching consequences than previously thought.

One of the most alarming aspects of the study is its revelation of cannabis use’s transgenerational effects. The researchers highlight how the damage caused by cannabis use, particularly to eggs and sperm, can be passed down to future generations. This discovery is particularly concerning, as recent studies have linked mitochondrial dysfunction and chromosomal damage to an increased cancer risk. The study suggests that cannabis interferes with cellular energy production by inhibiting mitochondrial function, further compounding the issue.

Dr Stuart Reece, one of the lead researchers from The University of Western Australia, emphasized the profound impact of cannabis on cellular health and its potential to cause lasting harm across multiple generations. For decades, cannabis use has been associated with various health complications, including the development of micronuclei and mitochondrial inhibition. Additionally, multiple studies have established a connection between cannabis exposure and developmental disorders, such as autism and cognitive processing difficulties in both humans and rodents.

The study stresses the importance of understanding the long-term effects of cannabis consumption. Researchers assert that cannabis use accelerates ageing at various stages of life, from eggs and sperm to fetuses and adults. This transgenerational impact can manifest in numerous ways, from the ageing of reproductive cells to potential health issues in offspring. As the study concludes, the consequences of cannabis use may be more pervasive than just individual health concerns.

Dr Reece also called on policymakers to reassess their stance on cannabis use, urging them to consider not just the immediate effects on individuals but the broader implications for future generations. The study serves as a crucial wake-up call for policymakers, reminding them to approach cannabis use with a full understanding of its potential risks, both personal and generational.

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