Is smoking marijuana bad for your lungs?

It's clear that tobacco is bad for the lungs and body, but what about cannabis?

More and more people are using marijuana, and this is putting a strain on the alcohol industry. But while marijuana is healthier than alcohol, what about tobacco? Is smoking marijuana bad for your lungs? There are several ways to consume cannabis – gummies, oils, vapes and smoking. Smoking remains the most popular form of consumption currently, but new users consider it “old school”. A major reason is the effort that smoking requires. E-cigarettes and gummies are easier to use on the go and don't have an unpleasant smell. Therefore, they are easier in larger social situations. But there is still a loyal core dedicated to smoking. And for them the lung question is important.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality of Life

Smoking marijuana damages the lungs and can lead to chronic respiratory diseases. Regular marijuana smokers often experience symptoms such as chronic cough, increased mucus production, wheezing, and acute bronchitis. The smoke from the combustion of marijuana contains many of the same toxins, irritants and carcinogens as tobacco smoke.

Photo by AnnaStills/Getty Images

Interestingly, studies have shown mixed results regarding marijuana's effects on lung function. Some research suggests that smoking marijuana is associated with airway inflammation and increased airway resistance. However, other studies have found that low to moderate marijuana use may not significantly affect lung function and may even be associated with increased lung capacity. The reasons for these contradictory results are not fully understood, but may be related to the bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory properties of some cannabinoids.

Rates of emphysema appear to be higher in marijuana smokers than in tobacco smokers and non-smokers. Smoking marijuana has been linked to the formation of large air pockets between or in the lungs, especially in heavy users. However, evidence of an increased risk of lung cancer or COPD from marijuana alone is not yet conclusive and requires further research

RELATED: Biden administration intervenes in cannabis industry

Although marijuana smoke contains similar harmful compounds to tobacco smoke, there are some key differences. Marijuana is typically smoked less frequently than tobacco, resulting in lower overall exposure.

But marijuana smokers tend to inhale more deeply and hold the smoke in their lungs longer, potentially causing greater damage. Plus, unlike tobacco, marijuana smoke is typically not filtered, which can increase toxin levels.

Occasional use cases are much less harmful, so this information is intended more for the everyday consumer, which can lead to other problems.