With all the news about the devastating effects of drugs such as ecstasy, heroin and cocaine, it's easy to understand why some kids and even parents believe that marijuana is harmless.

I have seen the destructive effects of marijuana on the lives of young people. Marijuana use by teens can lead to a host of health, social, learning and behavioral problems. Parents must take action to help decrease marijuana use by kids in our community.

Many parents and adults, based on their own experiences with the drug, still believe that marijuana is benign and not as serious as other drugs such as ecstasy. Some adults may feel there is nothing they can do to stop their kids from experimenting. Research shows that parents are the most powerful influence on children when it comes to drugs.

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