We all know smoking is an unhealthy habit. But there’s a prevailing idea that smoking marijuana is a healthier choice than smoking cigarettes. New research suggests that idea is more myth than reality.
“Just because you’re not smoking cigarettes doesn’t mean that what you are smoking is without risks,” says Samantha Tam, M.D., a head and neck cancer specialist at Henry Ford Health. “You’re still smoking a substance—whether it’s cannabis or nicotine.”
Cannabis and Head and Neck Cancer
A new study was one of the first to find a connection between cannabis use and increased risk of head and neck cancer. The researchers analyzed data from more than 100,000 people. They found that those who had received a clinical diagnosis of cannabis use disorder were 3.5 to 5 times more likely to develop head and neck cancer than those who didn’t use marijuana at all. Researchers suspect that—as with smoking cigarettes—smoking marijuana can cause DNA damage and inflammation, which can lead to cancer.
People with cannabis use disorder typically use the drug daily, experience negative physical or emotional health effects from it and are unsuccessful in their attempts to quit. “We suspect there are more people who meet the criteria for cannabis use disorder who haven’t been diagnosed because they haven’t sought help or don’t disclose marijuana use to their doctors,” says Dr. Tam.
While this study can’t prove actual cause and effect, the results should be a wake-up call for those who regularly—or even occasionally—smoke marijuana. “More research needs to be done, but this is information people should be aware of when deciding whether to continue using marijuana recreationally,” says Dr. Tam.
Other Risk Factors for Head and Neck Cancer
Cigarette smoking is still considered the number one cause of head and neck cancer. Another big risk factor is drinking alcohol. “Both of those habits on their own significantly increase your risk of developing head and neck cancer,” says Dr. Tam. “But if you smoke and drink, you more than double your risk.”
Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus that can also cause head and neck cancer. Up to 70% of certain types of head and neck cancer can be linked to HPV infection. The HPV vaccine (which can greatly reduce your risk of infection and resulting cancers) is recommended for adolescents. But the CDC suggests that people up to age 45 may want to discuss getting vaccinated with their doctors.
Cancer Care At Henry Ford
“People with HPV who also smoke have a worse prognosis when it comes to treating head and neck cancer,” says Dr. Tam. “Does this also apply to people who smoke cannabis? At this point, we don’t know for sure.”
Warning Signs of Head and Neck Cancer
Cancers of the head and neck can develop in the sinuses, inside the mouth (including the tongue and tonsils), in the throat or in the larynx (voice box). Traditionally, these cancers are diagnosed most often in people over 50. But as the incidence of HPV-related head and neck cancers increases, more younger adults are being diagnosed.
If you have any of the symptoms of head and neck cancer, be sure to bring them to your doctor’s attention as soon as possible. Early detection usually leads to more successful treatment.
Signs of head and neck cancer can include:
- Blocked sinuses
- Difficulty swallowing
- Pain in the neck, throat or ears
- Sores or white patches on the gums or tongue
- Swelling or a lump under the chin or around the jawbone
It’s important to take steps now to reduce your risk of head and neck cancer. This includes cutting down or quitting smoking—whether that’s cigarettes or marijuana.
Reviewed by Samantha Tam, M.D., a head and neck cancer specialist at Henry Ford Health.
