Marijuana (cannabis) and tobacco are two of the most commonly used smoked substances, but their differences are important to understand. Tobacco contains nicotine—a highly addictive stimulant—while marijuana’s main active compound is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which affects the brain in distinct ways. Tobacco products are highly regulated and typically consistent in their ingredients, whereas marijuana is available in a variety of strains and potencies, reflecting differences in cultivation and production methods. Some people use both substances or may switch between them, making it especially important to recognize how these differences can impact health decisions. Being informed about the unique characteristics of each helps you make choices that support your well-being.
Both tobacco and marijuana deliver smoke that contains toxins and carcinogens, yet their impact on long-term health is different. Decades of research show that tobacco use is closely linked to cancer, heart and lung disease, and early loss of life—tobacco continues to be one of the most preventable causes of death across the globe. The full extent of marijuana’s health risks is still being studied and appears to vary based on how it’s used and the way it is consumed. Effects of secondhand smoke and impacts on respiratory health remain important areas of scientific investigation. It’s worth noting that marijuana is less likely to lead to addiction (affecting about 9% of users), while nicotine dependence is much higher, with up to 30% of people who use nicotine becoming addicted.
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