It may be illegal â but smoking the occasional cannabis joint is less harmful than a cigarette, new research shows.

The odd joint ‘may be better than smoking a cigarette’, says new study
Occasional Cannabis could be less harmful than cigarettes (Picture: PA)

Infrequent marijuana use can even boost lung efficiency, the study from the University of Alabama at Birmingham suggests.

The drug increases lung air flow rates and capacity, the comparison of marijuana and tobacco smokers in the US shows.

‘Previous studies have had mixed results,’ said Dr Stefan Kertesz, who worked on the research.


But cannabis smokers should be wary as the research suggests long-term use can lead to heart and immune system problems. And furthermore, the improved lung efficiency may not be worth it.

Kertesz added: âItâs not enough of an increase that would make you feel better.â

The study was carried out between 1985 and 2006 using a sample of 5,000 young adults in Oakland, California; Chicago; Minneapolis; and Birmingham, Alabama.