Pubdate: Thu, 31 Oct 2002
Source: Las Vegas City Life (NV)
Copyright: 2002sLas Vegas City Life
Contact:  http://www.lasvegascitylife.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1653
Author: Dr. Robert J. Melamede
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?162 (Nevadans for Responsible Law 
Enforcement)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?163 (Question 9 (NV))

BEFORE VOTING, GET EDUCATED ON THE BENEFITS OF MARIJUANA

I am happy to hear of Nevada's proposed marijuana legislation. Never-ending 
governmental policies, based on ignorance, only promote the suffering of 
those who could be helped by marijuana.

It has been my experience that most doctors and scientists (certainly all 
politicians and members of law enforcement) have not read the current 
professional scientific literature regarding medical marijuana. Had they, 
most would likely have a different opinion on the topic.

Marijuana-like compounds, known as endogenous cannabinoids, control most of 
our body functions. They help to maintain healthful homeostasis of our 
immune, nervous, endocrine, reproductive, digestive and cardiovascular 
systems via specific cannabis receptors for which we all make psychoactive, 
cannabis-like compounds.

In addition, the cannabinoids have anti-glioma, breast cancer, lymphoma, 
leukemia and prostate cancer activities.

Furthermore, evolution has selected the cannabinoids as natural inhibitors 
of peripheral pain.

I could go on and on, but instead I would suggest that all involved parties 
get educated. It's time to believe the science and the people who are 
suffering. Marijuana is an anti-aging drug. In time, the truth will 
overcome ignorance.

How many people must needlessly suffer until then?

Dr. Robert J. Melamede, Colorado Springs, Colo.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager