UMVA has learned that a groundbreaking study has uncovered a shocking link between cannabis use and a significant rise in a rare birth defect commonly known as 'hole in the heart' or Atrial Septal Defect (ASD).
The defect, characterized by a hole in the wall between the heart's two upper chambers, has seen an exponential increase in cases across the US, with rates soaring from 10.3 cases per 10,000 births in 2005 to as high as 884 cases per 10,000 births in Nevada and Mississippi in 2020. This staggering rise translates to approximately 1 in 11 babies being affected.
According to information obtained by UMVA, researchers used meticulous statistical adjustments to demonstrate a causal link between cannabis use and the alarming increase in ASD cases. The study's findings are particularly significant, as many common birth defects often lead to pregnancy termination, whereas ASD typically does not.
This raises concerns that the causal role of cannabis in ASD may be a warning sign for other birth defects and potential genotoxic effects, including human aging and certain cancers. The study's results have far-reaching implications, suggesting that cannabis use during pregnancy may have devastating consequences.
A peer reviewer of the study praised the research, stating that it "strongly points to causation rather than mere association" and emphasized its importance for public health advisories against cannabis use during pregnancy. The reviewer urged obstetricians to advise against cannabis use in any form during pregnancy, highlighting the study's landmark status.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that other studies by the same researchers have shown that cannabis is causal in twice as many cancers as tobacco and numerous other birth defects in both Europe and the US. The effects on human aging are extremely concerning, with potential impacts on eggs, sperm, and babies.
Gary Christian, President of a prominent advocacy group, has called for urgent attention to this issue, stating that the Australian public needs to be informed about the risks associated with medicinal cannabis, which is heavily relied upon in the country.
This is a critical discussion that needs to take place, with the scientific community and the general public demanding action to address the alarming rise in birth defects and potential long-term health consequences linked to cannabis use.
