Is Marijuana Dangerous to your Physical Health? Essay Example

as the primary contributor to these effects.

When marijuana is smoked, it enters through the lungs and travels to the bloodstream. Professor Billy Martin from Medical College of Virginia suggests that THC appears to activate various biological systems within the body (Gallagher, 92). Additionally,
Dr.-Norman Zinberg, a Harvard researcher, conducted a study on marijuana users and concluded that occasional use generally does not result in psychological issues (Gallagher, 92). However, excessive marijuana consumption can lead to a lack of motivation commonly known as "burn-out." Dr. Millman from New York Hospital prefers the term "aberrant motivation" when referring to heavy smokers (Gallagher, 92).

Gabriel G. Nahas authored a report titled "The Health Hazards of Marijuana" in the September 1990 issue of World &I magazine which provides valuable information about marijuana's harmful effects. Marijuana usage negatively impacts memory and behavior. Dr. Richard Schwartz from Georgetown University explains that marijuana significantly disrupts short-term memory, particularly in young individuals who smoke it (Nahas, 287). Research by Guy Cabral from the Medical College of Virginia reveals that marijuana impairs the immune system's ability to eliminate virus-infected cells and tumor cells (Nahas, 293).

Furthermore, marijuana use hinders mental development in humans and contributes to various mental disorders. An article called "Take Two Puffs and Call Me in the Morning" by Rick Weiss in Science News on February 20, 1988 discusses both the advantages and disadvantages of using marijuana. It mentions that U.S scientists have discovered that marijuana can alleviate chemotherapy-induced nausea among cancer patients.The article explores how individuals with glaucoma use marijuana to decrease pressure behind their eyes, while also discussing its impact on receptor sites in the brain that regulate motor functions, learning, and

memory. It suggests potential therapeutic applications for marijuana in these areas, but acknowledges its negative effects on memory and the immune system. This is particularly concerning for students who rely on their memory and motivation for academic success. The article highlights that complications associated with marijuana use are mainly observed in heavy chronic users, similar to those linked to cigarette smoking. While occasional use may seem less problematic, habitual use can impair proper functioning and have disastrous effects on different parts of the body. Due to its fat-soluble nature, marijuana remains in the body for over four weeks, raising concerns about its long-term impact. Consequently, further research is crucial as marijuana might be more dangerous than currently understood. Similarly, additional studies should examine the side effects of THC before considering it as medicine since considering health implications of marijuana use is essential given that many drugs initially thought beneficial have caused harm instead.The presence and concern surrounding drug use, including marijuana, can be observed during social gatherings. By reading reports on the effects of marijuana, individuals may unknowingly harm themselves and reconsider their drug use. Many people who smoke marijuana experience common effects like lack of motivation and spaciness, which are easily noticeable. It is important to consider how these individuals would behave if they stopped using marijuana and allowed their bodies to eliminate THC and its by-products. The widespread use of marijuana in the United States, combined with a lack of education about its effects, has harmful consequences as these individuals unintentionally harm their bodies without considering potential outcomes. If marijuana use continues to rise, our nation could face a future where unmotivated individuals

suffer from various health issues due to weakened immune systems. This raises the question: what will our future look like?

Works Cited:
- The Associated Press, "Marijuana retains popularity despite anti-drug attitudes", Dallas Times Herald, p.A-6, November 18, 1990.
- Gallagher, Winifred, "Marijuana: Is there a new reason to worry?", American Health,p.92-104,March1988.
- Nahas,Gabriel G., "The Health Hazards of Marijuana", World &I,p.286-293 , September 1990.
- Weiss,Rick,"Take Two Puffs and Call Me in the Morning", Science News,p.122-123.February20 ,1988.Vol133.No .8