I write about the research on THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, because many people, especially parents, may not be aware of how dangerous it is, a danger that is enhanced because the commonly cultivated strains have been bred to have a much greater potency. While there may be a few legitimate medical uses of THC, those exceptions have been greatly abused. There is ample research on the harm caused to teens’ and young adults’ mental health, with a hugely magnified risk of psychosis. But there is also substantial and growing research on the physical harms. This study finds a new one–damage to the vascular system–blood vessels–that will lead to earlier heart disease. The damage occurred among both marijuana smokers and edible users. (JAMA Study)
What we are seeing with the legalization movement is typical–some rich people want to get even richer and they don’t care who gets hurt in the process. States and local governments see more tax dollars. In states with legalization, there is increased homelessness, and nuisances around THC shops. There is no way with the wide availability of THC products that they aren’t being given to underage children and that even infants are inadvertantly consuming edibles–there are many reports every year of ER visits and even deaths of children due to THC poisoning. So don’t believe the garbage about it being harmless–it isn’t. And states should be ashamed of themselves for legalizing, indeed promoting, non-medical use. How many lives have to be ruined before use is reined back in?
Thank you, Kevin! To say we are living in a universe of foolish, ignorant children is to dishonor children.
Kevin, no fan of drugs and alcohol here but I also realize adults can make their own decisions regarding their health and dietary options. There shouldn’t be seat belt or helmet laws either.
Individual responsibility is great as long as the individuals also bear the cost consequences, and they don’t, the public does. through Medicaid, SS disability, higher health, car and other insurance costs, etc. The public should be protected from these costs, but they aren’t and won’t be, so the laws are necessary.