Pubdate: Sun, 03 Apr 2016
Source: Detroit Free Press (MI)
Copyright: 2016 Detroit Free Press
Contact: http://www.freep.com/article/99999999/opinion04/50926009
Website: http://www.freep.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/125
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v16/n200/a07.html
Author: Stephanie Nickerson

LEGAL MARIJUANA LIKELY TO HARM MICHIGAN TEENS

As Michigan considers marijuana, ("Michigan voters would OK legal 
pot, poll says," March 28), it is important to understand the impact 
on public health, especially the health of teens. The debate over 
legalization may be confusing and contributes to the perception that 
marijuana is harmless.

Research shows otherwise. For example, one in six teens who start 
early will become addicted to marijuana, a statistic that rises to 
25-50 percent with daily use. Legal-pot states are beginning to see 
the effect. Colorado, for example, now leads the nation in past-month 
marijuana use by young people.

Other studies offer further evidence of negative health impacts of 
heavy, regular use, including long-term memory loss, schizophrenia, 
psychosis, and depression. For these reasons, the nation's major 
medical associations have opposed legalization of recreational marijuana.

Accurate information is needed to make informed decisions on policy 
that affects public health. For more information go to 
marijuanascienceforum.org

Stephanie Nickerson

Falls Church, Va.
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom