Pubdate: Sat, 17 Mar 2012 Source: Chatham Daily News, The (CN ON) Copyright: 2012 OSPREY Media Group Inc. Contact: http://www.chathamdailynews.ca/feedback1/LetterToEditor.aspx Website: http://www.chathamdailynews.ca Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1627 Author: Trevor Terfloth A DIFFERENT KIND OF GREEN HEALTH: Awareness outlining the dangers of marijuana CHATHAM - A different kind of green was being promoted in downtown Chatham on Friday. The Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit organized an awareness blitz on the health impacts of marijuana, with local youth volunteers and nursing students taking part at the corner of King Street West and Fifth Street. With a St. Patrick's Day theme, passersby had the chance to spin the wheel and answer questions for prizes. "We thought what a great time to tie it in with something a little bit more festive and positive," said Jeff Moco, youth engagement co-ordinator. He said although the group normally focuses on tobacco prevention, there is a need to speak about pot. "Young people are smoking, and a high percentage of them are also smoking marijuana," he said. "When you look at popular culture and media, there's a lot of very strong pro-marijuana messaging." Moco said misconceptions are spread among young people that the herb is healthier than other drugs, and doesn't have significant impacts. He said one just has to look at the precautions taken by some professions. "If you take a grow-op or something where police and fire can't go in without wearing protective equipment to remove it, yet people are burning and igniting that without any health effect? Come on," he said. Moco said the ages between 14 and 24 are crucial for brain development. He said studies have proven there are long-term dangers. Information will also be distributed to high schools, he said. Ashleigh Lavigne, a Grade 12 student at John McGregor Secondary School, was one of the youths involved. She said she hopes to help peers make the right decisions. "We like to get out and get people aware," she said.