Are Cigarettes Or Blunts More Harmful?

Beyond blood sugar: The hidden connections of type 2 diabetes

Advertisement

Home / Cannabis / Are cigarettes or blunts more harmful? Are cigarettes or blunts more harmful? By The GrowthOp Published Jun 07, 2021 Last updated Feb 19, 2025 2 minute read Join the conversation 2 minute read Join the conversation Some would suggest blunt smokers have an edge over cigarette smokers, in part because there are other non-smoking ways in which to ingest cannabis. / ISTOCK / GETTY IMAGES PLUS By: Maria Loreto, The Fresh Toast While there are marked differences between tobacco and cannabis, one thing they share is that the smoke they produce is harmful to people’s lungs. No matter the content inside the wrapping paper, the fact that a person is ingesting ash is harmful and could have repercussions later on in life. But what is more harmful: cigarettes or blunts? There are a few studies out there that look into both, finding some differences that should be considered when a person is weighing the overall effect on health.

Tobacco is highly carcinogenic

When comparing cannabis and tobacco, cannabis is the clear winner. Tobacco is a highly carcinogenic element and very addictive. Cannabis can be addictive and toxic when ingested via smoke as well, but some studies suggest the body isn’t exposed to the same level of toxins as it is when consuming tobacco. Tobacco contains more than 4,000 different chemical compounds, some of which have been linked to cancer.

Cigarettes are generally smoked more often than blunts

Another thing to consider is the number of cigarettes and joints that are smoked daily. Moderate cigarette smokers may consume one to five cigarettes daily, with some research indicating the more they consume cigarettes, the greater the risk of developing lung cancer and heart disease. STORY CONTINUES BELOW

Advertisement

While blunts are harmful and result in a lot of ingested smoke, they’re generally consumed far less often. Some people share blunts, reducing intake, or do not smoke on a daily basis.

Cigarettes have filters

One thing cigarettes have that blunts don’t is a filter, which can prevent the amount of tar and ash to which the lungs are subjected. Blunts are bigger and produce more ash and tar, with no filter in between them and the mouth. Some would suggest blunt smokers have an edge over cigarette smokers, in part because there are other non-smoking ways in which to ingest cannabis. Plus, at least one study has found that light to moderate cannabis use hasn’t been linked to lung cancer, so moderation is likely a key consideration. The FreshToast.com, a U.S. lifestyle site that contributes lifestyle content and, with their partnership with 600,000 physicians via Skipta, medical marijuana information to The GrowthOp. Subscribe to Weekend Dispensary, a new weekly newsletter from The GrowthOp.

Share Story

Share This Story

Are cigarettes or blunts more harmful?

Email Facebook X LinkedIn Copy Story Link You May Also Like Cannabis use in post-secondary students: Potential health risks and informed decisions Opinion: The case for more cannabis research in migraine treatment Study links cannabis use to lower risk of cognitive decline, dementia-related diseases It causes seven types of cancer and birth defects. Should alcohol have a warning label? CBD is not a cure-all. Here’s what science says about its real health benefits Pot legalization has reduced demand for codeine prescriptions in U.S.: Study Legalization of cannabis doesn't lead to abuse of other drugs Join our newsletter

Sign up for patient and caregiver stories, expert insights, and advocacy for better access—delivered straight to your inbox.

Email address Sign up

By clicking "Sign Up", I consent to receiving communications from Healthing.ca and Postmedia Network Inc. I understand that I may unsubscribe from these communications at any time.

Hide Join our newsletter Join our newsletter Show