Genesee County Health Department
Better Life Through Better Health
Marijuana is More Harmful Than Ever
I'm a parent who briefly
used pot as a teenager in the 70's. I'm
hearing that it's not the same
stuff that might tempt my teenagers. What should I know?
Marijuana, or "pot,"
is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States.It is both
illegal and harmful. Using pot has short and long-term effects, such as
memory loss, problems learning and thinking, and it can cause a shorter
attention span. Youth who use pot are more likely to skip school, fight
and take part in other illegal activities. Pot reduces the ability to do
things that require coordination and concentration, like sports, acting
and studying. Pot contains cancer-causing chemicals as does tobacco.
However, the risk of cancer to a pot smoker equals that of someone
smoking five times as many cigarettes.
Unfortunately, some parents who used pot themselves as teenagers,
think of it as harmless. But it is much more potent compared to the pot
of only 10 years ago and much easier to get. In fact, since 1975, the
amount of THC, the mind-altering chemical in pot, has tripled, on
average . . . . .
Parents sometimes consider pot less dangerous when compared to other
illicit drugs like crack cocaine or heroin. Yet studies show it is the
gateway to use of other drugs. Almost all users of drugs like crack
cocaine and heroin, currently use pot or used it in the past. Teaching
young people to avoid pot can help to prevent other drug use and
delinquent behavior.
For more information about marijuana or other drugs, contact the
Genesee County Health Department at 257-3612.
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