Pubdate: Sun, 18 Sep 2005 Source: USA Weekend (US) Copyright: 2005 USA WEEKEND Contact: http://www.usaweekend.com/mail/ask_all.html#general Website: http://www.usaweekend.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3932 Note: This publication is inserted in Sunday/weekend papers nationwide. Author: Susan T. Lennon Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/pot.htm (Cannabis) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal) POT: CANNABIS ISN'T AS HARMLESS AS SUGGESTED Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in the United States. But if you think it's hot to smoke pot, consider this: Two recent studies show that cannabis damages the vessels in your brain by constricting blood flow -- putting you at risk for stroke. It makes no difference whether you smoke it, eat it or take a pill. The active ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the culprit. The stronger its concentration -- ranging from 1% in some herbal preparations to 65% in some hashish oils -- the greater the danger. Long-term and heavy users are at risk. Cannabis has long been associated with harmful changes in the brain; now sophisticated medical tools can pinpoint them. One study demonstrates that impairment of the brain's blood flow persists for at least a month after the last high. This eventually can lead to a stroke and its resulting paralysis, and problems with vision, memory and speech. What about medical marijuana? Scientific studies are underway to nail down its usefulness and safety, especially as an aid for pain. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake