NCJ Number
165146
Date Published
Unknown
Length
50 pages
Annotation
The Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) argues that the California and Arizona referenda that have legalized the possession of marijuana for "compassionate medical" use are not based on any scientific evidence of marijuana's medicinal value; whereas, there is evidence of marijuana's negative health effects.
Abstract
The California and Arizona initiatives have created serious confusion for youth regarding the use and abuse of marijuana at a time when the rates of experimentation and habitual use are increasing among 12- to 17 year-olds. The message these initiatives send is that marijuana is medically benevolent and therefore is not a harmful drug. In addition, these initiatives can only increase access to marijuana for a young population that will be damaged by the drug use. All available research indicates that smoking marijuana regularly increases the risk of developing memory, learning, and emotional disorders, as well as a host of smoking-related illnesses, including cancer. Moreover, the initiatives have thrown out all the accepted rules of medical research and Food and Drug Administration approval. This information guide is intended to be used as a kit for community leaders engaged in the public debate about public policy toward marijuana.