But this is the first study to examine the direct and devastating short-term effects of cocaine on the heart. Known as the Determinants of Myocardial Infarction Onset Study, the research was carried out between 1989 and 1996 at 64 medical centers across the United States and included interviews with 2,664 men and 1,282 women who had suffered a non-fatal heart attack. The individuals ranged in age from 20 to 92. Thirty-eight individuals reported cocaine use in the prior year, and nine reported use of the drug within 60 minutes before their heart attacks. Mittleman notes that cocaine users are more likely to be male and to smoke cigarettes.
Smoking is a major risk factor for heart attack.
These two variables were accounted for in assessing whether cocaine use increases the risk for heart attack. We'd like to learn more about the difference that gender and frequency of use may make in cocaine-associated risk. The researchers plan a similar study to examine the relationship between stroke and cocaine. Researchers suggest several ways that cocaine may trigger a heart attack. These effects can increase the risk of a heart attack.