Study: Smoking can lessen IQ
And we’re not even talking about marijuana.
Reuters reports: “The poorer mental function seen among alcoholics, many of whom also regularly smoke cigarettes, may be partially due to the long-term effects of nicotine, new research suggests.”
“People who are also smokers are at a much higher risk,” Dr. Jennifer M. Glass, of the University of Michigan’s Addiction Research Center, told Reuters Health.
October 30th, 2005 at 8:16 pm
It’s a good thing that you’re “not even talking about marijuana” because if you had been reading the latest research, you would know that there is no way it can be compared to nicotine. In fact, very recent data shows the active ingredients in marijuana help prevent the formation of cancers, and may even help the regeneration of brain cells.
I suggest you do a web search, using marijuana as your key word.
Yours respectfully,
Lyle Weis
October 30th, 2005 at 9:59 pm
Lyle,
We took your advice and did a Yahoo! keyword search of “marijuana” — “effects of”
Search results:
#1. InfoFacts: Marijuana
It informs us: “The short-term effects of marijuana can include problems with memory and learning; distorted perception; difficulty in thinking and problem solving; loss of coordination; and increased heart rate. Research findings for long-term marijuana use indicate some changes in the brain similar to those seen after long-term use of other major drugs of abuse.”
Not to mention the harmful effects on heart and lungs, also described.
#2. Neuroscience for Kids - Marijuana
It informs: “[B]ecause there is a high level of tar and other chemicals in marijuana, smoking it is similar to smoking cigarettes. The lungs get a big dose of chemicals that increase the chances of lung problems and cancer later in life.”
Not quite as current, but still revealing:
Aetna InteliHealth advises: “A three-city study of heavy marijuana users has found that longterm pot smoking impairs brain function, scientists report.”
Thanks for your comment, and we appreciate your continued readership.