A recent study has found that regular use of cocaine can put a person at the risk of developing heart problems. The findings of the study were presented to American Heart Association during Scientific Sessions held in Los Angeles. It has come to light that youngsters using cocaine once in a month can increase their chances of developing heart problems by 35%.

The study was conducted following the increased number of heart patients at Royal North Shore hospital. For the study, 40 people were recruited. The participants of the study were divided in two groups - non-users of cocaine and users of cocaine.

The participants of the study were asked to go for blood test and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging tests. During the study, the medical history of the participants was also noted. Following the blood tests and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging tests, it came to light that the users of cocaine, over the period of time, develop heart problems. While acknowledging the findings of the study, Dr. Alex Wodak from St Vincent's Hospital said, "The other concern about cocaine use is that heart disease is exacerbated when the cocaine is taken with alcohol, which it often is".