Marijuana Abuse & Testicular Cancer: Recent Findings

Substance abuse and addiction are often associated with both physical and mental health problems. A study published early in 2009 in Cancer has suggested that there may be a link between marijuana use and testicular cancer.

What is marijuana?

From one of two plant species, marijuana is dried plant material that is smoked or eaten by a user. For more information on marijuana abuse, addiction, detox, and treatment, visit the marijuana page.

What were the findings of the study?

The researchers interviewed 369 men who had testicular cancer and were between the ages of 18 and 44. Their answers were compared to the answers of 1,000 control subjects who were healthy. Compared to the healthy population, simply being a marijuana smoker increased a man’s chances of developing testicular cancer by 70%; the risk was even higher (almost double that of those who hadn’t smoked marijuana) for men who smoked marijuana frequently and/or who had begun smoking it when they were young. There seemed to be a correlation between the development of a certain type of testicular cancer and initiating marijuana use before the age of 18. However, researchers cautioned that a study on a larger group of men needs to be conducted before the research can be confirmed.

Are there any other potential negative health consequences from marijuana abuse?

In addition to this study, other research has suggested that there may be a link between marijuana abuse and the onset of schizophrenia (read Marijuana Abuse: A Path to Schizophrenia?). Because one of the side effects of marijuana use is increased appetite, individuals who abuse marijuana may gain weight. Some users report the development of a feeling of apathy to general life situations.

What can I do if someone I know is abusing or addicted to marijuana?

If you or someone you know is abusing or addicted to marijuana, we encourage you to call eDrugRehab today. Our addiction professionals can answer your questions about intervention, detox, treatment, and recovery; we can help you find a rehab facility that fits your budget. If your loved one is still in denial about a substance abuse or addiction problem that is very clear to you, we can also help you and your family arrange and implement an intervention to get them the help that they need. The sooner you make the call, the sooner you or your loved one can begin the path toward recovery.