Marijuana Smoking and Lung Cancer

Abstract

Background: The relationship between marijuana smoking and lung cancer has become increasingly relevant, as cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug worldwide1. In addition, of all cancer related deaths, 27% will be specifically related to lung cancer; accounting for approximately 159,260 deaths per year2. Through extensive research on cannabis, several pathways have been identified in relation to oncogenesis, in addition to the factors correlated with carcinogen content and smoking technique7. Objective: This study will focus on the association between smoking cannabis and the development of lung cancer. A literature review will be performed to assess this relationship and attempt to provide a logical conclusion to the phenomenon. Methods: This evaluation was conducted based on 11 peer reviewed articles retrieved from PubMed and The University of Ottawa Library Database by searching key words such as: cannabis, lung cancer and marijuana. Results: Although the relationship between marijuana smoking and lung cancer is unclear, the majority of the articles indicated a positive correlation between inhalation of cannabis and oncogenesis of the lungs. Conclusion: Based on the molecular, cellular and histopathologic findings, further mechanistic studies are required for definitive conclusions; however, physicians should make the potential of adverse health outcomes clear to their patients.