Myth: Marijuana is more damaging to the lungs than Tobacco.
Fact: While Marijuana contains some of the same carcinogens and irritants as tobacco smoke, marijuana users smoke less frequently than tobacco users. There have been no known cases of lung cancer contributed to solely marijuana usage.
Myth: Marijuana offenses are not severely punished.
Fact: Tens of thousands of people are now in prison for marijuana offenses. An even greater number are punished each year with fines, probation, and seizures of property. Even with civil and criminal sanctions, marijuana continues to be widely used and distributed.
Myth:Marijuana is more potent today than in the past.
Fact: The marijuana used to today is the same drug that was used in the 1960's. Even if a strand of marijuana has a more potent THC, the effects are similar.
Myth: Marijuana is highly addictive.
Fact: For most users of marijuana it is only used occasionally. Less than 1 percent of Americans are heavy users. For some heavy users drug treatment may be required while most can quit with no professional help. Marijuana is much less addictive than other drugs used today. If with drawl symptoms do occur, they are mild.
Myth: Marijuana can cause permanent mental illness.
Fact: Some users may experience psychological distress and anxiety, but the effects are temporary. Once usage has stopped, there are no known psychological problems.
