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.
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MAP posted-by: Elaine