NCJ Number
162137
Date Published
1989
Length
32 pages
Annotation
Risks and consequences of marijuana use have been intensely debated in the United States for more than 50 years, but the discussion has often relied more on rhetoric and hysteria than on objective scientific evidence.
Abstract
More than simply a medical issue, the controversy over marijuana has been defined in terms of beliefs, values, and political persuasion. These perspectives may be valid but they have created a troubling climate for physicians. Marijuana has been shown to cause varied physical and psychological problems. Although some of these disorders are still the subject of scientific debate, many are well-established. Moreover, they are progressive rather than self-limiting and are responsive to medical treatment. An overview of cannabinoids is presented that focuses on marijuana forms and types, the history of marijuana use, current marijuana use patterns, correlates of and controversies surrounding marijuana use, and whether marijuana should be legalized. 41 references and 4 tables