Pubdate: Sun, 24 Sep 2006 Source: Quesnel Cariboo Observer (CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Quesnel Cariboo Observer Contact: http://www.quesnelobserver.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1260 BE SMARTER THAN DRUGS Dangers Of Marijuana Are Underestimated Marijuana is by far the most popular illicit substance. Every youngster will one day be confronted with marijuana consumption, some while they are still quite young. In fact, some children start as early as elementary school, and, by age 10, the most impulsive are already regular marijuana users. However, this drug involves many dangers that, unfortunately, are too often underestimated. As young people begin a new school year, their challenge is to be smarter than drugs. Marijuana smoke is more carcinogenic than tobacco smoke. In fact, smoking three joints is as dangerous for the lungs as smoking 20 cigarettes. In spite of these facts, we continue to minimize the dangers of marijuana. "Those who believe there is no danger in using this drug are totally mistaken," reknowned psychiatrist, Dr. Philippe Nuss states. According to him, regular users (more than three joints per day) don't fully appreciate that, while marijuana may help them make friends and forget their problems, it also leads to lack of motivation, cognitive difficulties, and feelings of paranoia and anxiety. At a time when we are debating the possible legalization of marijuana, a study that began in 1980 demonstrates regular marijuana use quadruples the risk of developing symptoms of depression. According to the authors of this study, abusive consumers are also frequent victims of suicidal thoughts. - --- MAP posted-by: Elaine