Pubdate: Mon, 01 Mar 2004
Source: Flint Journal (MI)
Section: Staying Well
Copyright: 2004 Flint Journal
Contact:  http://www.flintjournal.com
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/836
Note: by Genesee County Health Department staff

MARIJUANA IS HARMFUL TO MIND AND BODY, DESPITE BEING NATURAL

According to the 2001 National Household Survey on Drug Abuse,
marijuana is the most widely used illegal drug by youth.

A rumor among teens is that marijuana is safe because it's "natural."
In reality, it is not harmless.

Its use can lead to brain changes similar to those caused by cocaine,
heroin and alcohol use.

Marijuana impairs judgment, concentration and skill performance.
Marijuana affects reaction time and skills needed for safe driving.

The state of Michigan recently passed a zero-tolerance law for drivers
who use certain illegal drugs. As of fall of 2003, drivers with any
trace of marijuana or Schedule 1 drugs in their systems are subject to
the same fines and penalties as drunken drivers, even if they show no
signs of impairment.

The effects of marijuana vary from user to user. The National
Household Survey (2000-2002) found that marijuana use has been linked
to violence, suicidal thoughts, sexual encounters, sexually
transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.

National Institute on Drug Abuse research proves that marijuana is
addictive and leads to dependence among adolescents more often than
adults.

Today's marijuana is grown to be more potent than the pot of the '70s.
Regular use can trigger drug cravings, anxiety, panic attacks,
depression and paranoia.

Marijuana contains the same cancer-causing agents as tobacco. Smoking
four joints a week is equivalent to smoking a pack of cigarettes.
Smokers inhale marijuana and hold it, increasing tissue damage and the
chance of lung cancer.

For more information about marijuana or other drugs, please call the
Genesee County Health Department Substance Abuse Coordinating Agency
at (810) 257-3201. 
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake