Pubdate: Sat, 05 Dec 2015 Source: Tennessean, The (Nashville, TN) Copyright: 2015 The Tennessean Contact: http://www.tennessean.com/SITES/OPINION/submit-editor.shtml Website: http://www.tennessean.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/447 Author: Sabi 'Doc' Kumar MEDICAL MARIJUANA TRUTH Re: "Tenn. Should Embrace Legalized Weed," by Cecily Friday, Shamim, Nov. 30. Ms. Shamim's positions on this issue are expected. As a physician, I am fully aware of the benefits and harms of marijuana. Ms. Shamim cites the benefits only but also makes changes to suit. If we consider the first few of her points, it will become clear that the rest do not merit consideration. Ms. Shamim cites a "placebo controlled" study of marijuana in PTSD patients in ScienceDaily that showed positive results. A "placebo control" for marijuana is not possible. A placebo is meant to mimic the real thing. Are there people who cannot tell the difference between real and fake marijuana? Think high! This study was a survey of PTSD patients who were offered free marijuana under the New Mexico Medical Cannabis Program. There was no placebo. Also in ScienceDaily, I found that certain forms of "cannabis can damage a crucial part of the brain responsible for communication between the two brain hemispheres, according to a new study by scientists from King's College London." Ms Shamim fails to mention this study! Such selectivity does injustice to the pages of The Tennessean and honest public discourse. To choose and quote research that only serves the purpose of her advocacy group may be good for her job, but citizens need a balanced view. Medical marijuana is useful in many conditions. I mentioned these in my Op-Ed, "'Medical' marijuana is already available," Nov 23. Both as a physician and a legislator, I believe that if medical marijuana will help a patient, they should have it. I advise a safe, exact and medical method of delivery. Rep. Sabi 'Doc' Kumar MD, R-Springfield, District 66, Robertson County - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom