Cannabis users are carrying around more heavy metals in their bodies than non-cannabis users.
Thatβs according to a new study that found cannabis users had higher levels of cadmium and lead in their blood and urine.
βBoth cadmium and lead stay in your body for quite a long time,β said lead author Tiffany Sanchez.
Chronic inhalation or oral exposure to cadmium leads to a build-up of cadmium in the kidneys that can cause kidney disease, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
The EPA also said cadmium can have adverse effects on the lungs including pulmonary irritation.
Researchers said their study was unable to determine whether self-reported cannabis users were using medical or recreational cannabis.
βThis is something that should be evaluated in future studies,β said Sanchez.