Cannabis and the Lung

Abstract

While most cannabis use involves inhalation of the fumes from combustion, other routes of administration are also common but the consequences of these routes of exposure are less well known than from that of smoking. It is clear that prolonged use of cannabis causes chronic bronchitis and airflow obstruction in heavy users. However, there is a need to further understand the lung biology influenced by cannabis use, the potential for lung carcinogenesis, the effects of high THC products, and the health effects of different routes of administration. This review summarizes the present state of knowledge with regard to irritation and long-term effects on the lung and bronchial tissues.