Cannabis 'Damages Teenagers' Brains,' Believe Top Scientists
The perception that cannabis is a 'safe' drug is incorrect, as scientific data shows it causes damage to adolescent users brains, increasing the risk of addictive behaviours.
The perception that cannabis is a 'safe' drug is incorrect, as scientific data shows it causes damage to adolescent users brains, increasing the risk of addictive behaviours.
Researchers at the University of Montreal and New York's Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai say the nature of the teenage brain makes young people particularly at risk from long-term negative effects associated with cannabis use.
Authors Didier Jutras-Aswad and Yasmin Hurd said: "Of the illicit drugs, cannabis is most used by teenagers since it is perceived by many to be of little harm. This perception has led to a growing number of states approving its legalisation and increased accessibility.
"Most of the debates and ensuing policies regarding cannabis were done without consideration of its impact on one of the most vulnerable population, namely teens, or without consideration of scientific data."
They said that although more comprehensive studies are needed to examine the effect of cannabis on the adolescent brain, evidence shows the drug has a direct influence on addictive behaviours, especially certain groups of vulnerable individuals.
http://www.ibtimes.co.uk 27/08/2013
S
Soft Secrets
