Science shows pot is harmful
Toolbox
Published: November 23, 2007
At least two Times-Argus letter writers have made false claims lately regarding the supposed harmlessness of marijuana. Walter Carpenter claims that "marijuana does far less harm than cigarettes," and Clancy DeSmit asserts that "We all know that alcohol and/or tobacco are far more harmful to individuals and society than marijuana."
We do? Actually, not. Contrary to perceived hippie lore, marijuana has been shown in numerous scientific studies to be both far more harmful to the lungs and immune system than cigarette smoke and more damaging to brain function and learning ability than comparable alcohol use.
A quick tour of health-related Web sites supported by many scientific studies and agencies, including the National Institute of Health and the British Lung Foundation, turned up these facts:
I've known people who never became the engineers, physicians, scientists or other real problem-solvers they might have become had they not blown their minds on pot. And I think I know others who, for the same reason, can't seem to see the forest for the trees in their political opinions or their personal relationships.
I doubt that sending every confused and physically weakened pot head to jail is the answer. But I strongly support Gov. Douglas in sending a very clear message that pot is off limits. It has been shown to be a physical danger and a mental illness accelerator, and its more widespread use would be devastating to our adult citizens, to our young people, and to the progress and safety of our country.
Andy Leader
North Middlesex
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