Pubdate: Wed, 23 Apr 2014 Source: Minneapolis Star-Tribune (MN) Copyright: 2014 Star Tribune Contact: http://www.startribunecompany.com/143 Website: http://www.startribune.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/266 Author: Heidi Seltz THERE IS, ACTUALLY, EVIDENCE OF ITS HARM An April 21 letter stated that marijuana has "never been proven beyond anecdote" to be harmful to one's health. However, many studies have shown otherwise. The National Institutes of Health links long-term marijuana use to respiratory problems and cognitive deficiencies, especially when used by young people. Heavy use of alcohol and other legal substances also has negative health effects, so I have not yet decided whether I think marijuana should be legalized. But its impact on health should not be minimized. HEIDI SELTZ, Minneapolis - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom