The marijuana battle is smokin....

Believe it or not, once upon a time physicians thought that smoking was good for you...and there were no negative health benefits....freshened your breathe too!

A few weeks ago I was on a panel of "citizens" that was formed to glean our views on some issues such as the legalization of pot.

I realize that the wave in favour of full legalization is rolling over all of us.

But, when the smoke clears, one must examine some of the evidence why full legalization is NOT a good idea.

So, the quiet voice of reason pops up every now and then.  It tells us:

• Marijuana use linked to cardiovascular complications and death
• The Truth About Marijuana: Health Risks Trivialized(Op-Ed)
• 5 Pot Facts for 4/20
• 'Casual marijuana use changes the brain,' researchers say
• Marijuana use linked to schizophrenic-related brainchanges

 

 There is more out there.  Not to say that there are not studies that suggest some health "benefits".

As Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum stated:

"...because information like this has not been part of the discussion on marijuana legalization thus far, and when health issues come up, they are often trivialized by the pro-marijuana lobby. People often see marijuana as a "healthy drug" or a "natural drug," and some people even claim it can cure disease, not to mention treat pain, decrease nausea and increase appetite. Of course, marijuana does benefit some people who have these issues. But we need to step back, take a breath and consider the big picture."

Yes indeed.  Time to look at the big picture, rather than rush head on for full legalization.