Pubdate: Fri, 24 Jul 2015
Source: Times Union (Albany, NY)
Copyright: 2015 Capital Newspapers Division of The Hearst Corporation
Contact:  http://www.timesunion.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/452
Author: Mitch Earleywine

MEDICAL MARIJUANA A HELP TO PATIENTS

I was delighted to read the editorial "Open the marijuana files" 
(July 14), encouraging more transparency in the processes for making 
medical cannabis available to New Yorkers. Our state needs to work 
quickly and openly in this process.

Our state legislators can rest assured that research confirms the 
plant's medical efficacy and safety. It reliably helps those 
suffering from AIDS-related wasting, the side effects of 
chemotherapy, symptoms of multiple sclerosis and various types of 
pain. It also shows promise for many other ailments. Patients can 
sidestep respiratory irritation thanks to new vaporizer technology and edibles.

States with medical marijuana laws do not show spikes in teen use. 
They can see significant drops in suicide. New jobs and a new source 
of tax revenue would be great, but, most importantly, we could all 
feel better about helping ill New Yorkers receive every humane option 
for treatment.

Mitch Earleywine

Professor, Psychology

University at Albany

Albany
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom