Chronic Cannabis Smoking, Oxidative Stress and the Pulmonary Innate Immune Response
University of Colorado, Denver
Summary
This study plans to evaluate the effects of chronic cannabis smoking on lung health by evaluating its effects on pulmonary health, lung physiology and alveolar macrophage function.
Description
I. Hypotheses and Specific Aims: With changing legislation, the landscape of cannabis use is shifting; data demonstrates that public perception of marijuana's "safety" has contributed to increasing usage most commonly via the inhaled route (smoking). The effects of habitual cannabis smoking on lung health, however, remains unclear. Spirometric data has been inconclusive regarding risk of airflow limitation and development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a finding that may be attributable to inaccurate reporting due to its former illegal nature. It seems clear, however, that these pa…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–55 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: INCLUSION CRITERIA for CANNABIS USING patient: Subjects will be eligible if they meet ALL of the following criteria: 1. Daily or near daily cannabis use (inhaled via joint/cigarette or pipe) equivalent to AT LEAST 20 "joint years" (number of joints/cigarettes per day multiplied by number of years during which cannabis was smoked) by self-report and validated through urine drug screen. 2. Never or limited exposure to inhaled tobacco products (equivalent to LESS THAN one "pack year" in a lifetime) by selfreport and validated through negative urine cotinine screen. 3. Capaci…
Interventions
- ProcedureBronchoscopy
Passage of a thin flexible tube through the mouth, into the windpipe and then into the bronchial tubes so that the study doctor can look into the lungs to perform Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), cytologic brushing, and protected specimen brushing.
- RadiationChest X-ray
To identify any previously undiagnosed lung disease that will either increase the risk of bronchoscopy or confound results of the study.
- ProcedureVenipuncture
To collect blood cells and serum for analyses.
- ProcedureIntravenous Catheter
To administer the appropriate medications for the bronchoscopy procedure.
Location
- University of Colorado, DenverAurora, Colorado