Is marihuana less harmful than tobacco or alcohol?
The harmful effects of tobacco use and alcohol abuse on individuals and society are well known. For example, we know that tobacco is the leading cause of preventable deaths in Canada. And we are aware that domestic violence and many traffic injuries and deaths are closely linked to alcohol abuse. Marihuana is not in these two categories. Marihuana does share some harmful health effects in common with tobacco, such as the cancer-causing agents and damage to the breathing system. Marihuana has similar harmful effects as alcohol, such as impaired judgment, coordination and concentration. Marihuana use also poses risks to work place and traffic safety. Evidence is beginning to show that long-term marihuana use poses a risk for memory and selective attention that nicotine or moderate daily drinking is not associated with. Q: With the laws concerning marihuana going through changes, it seems that there may be very few legal consequences if a teenager is caught with marihuana. What impact can
