Pubdate: Sat, 22 Nov 2014
Source: Washington Post (DC)
Copyright: 2014 The Washington Post Company
Contact: http://mapinc.org/url/mUgeOPdZ
Website: http://www.washingtonpost.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/491
Author: Stephanie Nickerson Babyak
Page: A14
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v14/n884/a05.html

TAKE A HARDER LOOK AT MARIJUANA

The Nov. 18 Health & Science commentary "PTA mom says it's time to 
legalize marijuana" contained a good deal of parenting advice but not 
much science. As the debate on marijuana continues, it is critical 
that science be part of the discussion. Today's marijuana is much 
stronger than in decades past, and new research is raising concerns.

A long-term study found that heavy marijuana use in teens resulted in 
an IQ loss of eight points and that teens are at risk of dependency 
and going on to use harder drugs. Marijuana smoke contains numerous 
carcinogens. A 20-year research study found that marijuana use 
doubles the risk of psychotic disorder and leads to poor attention 
and memory. Drugged driving significantly increased the risk of motor 
vehicle collisions.

Years ago, people thought smoking cigarettes was harmless, too. The 
public deserves accurate information about the health effects of 
marijuana use, and more research is needed. Let's not look back with 
regret and say, "I'd wish I'd known."

Stephanie Nickerson Babyak, Falls Church The writer is executive 
director of the Marijuana Science Forum.
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