Go To Top WHAT LONG-TERM PROBLEMS OCCUR WITH MARIJUANA?
• Smoking marijuana is particularly harmful to the lungs. Smoke of any kind inflames the lungs and affects their functions. Marijuana smoke contains many irritants and known cancer causing chemicals. Users may experience hoarseness, coughing, laryngitis, and bronchitis. One study showed that smoking marijuana impairs the lungs even more than smoking cigarettes. Evidence shows that smoking marijuana impairs the body cells which defend against bacteria and other disease germs. • It is likely that smoked marijuana can cause cancer if used for a number of years. Marijuana smoke contains even more cancer-causing agents than tobacco smoke. Human lung tissue that had been exposed to marijuana smoke in a laboratory showed precancerous cell changes. In laboratory tests, tars from marijuana smoke have produced tumors when applied to animal skin. • Animal studies have shown persistent changes in the structure of the brain cells after regular marijuana use. Subtle and lasting changes in human brai
