Scientists are finding “convincing evidence” that marijuana can damage DNA and even cause certain forms of cancer. These revelations are more than alarming, considering that Alaska, Oregon, Colorado, Washington, and the city of Washington, D.C. have all legalized marijuana for recreational use, while all the previously mentioned states plus 19 others have legalized forms of marijuana for medical use.
The science
Marijuana and its constitutive cannabinoids–tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabidiol (CBD)–markedly affect mammalian cells. Cytogenetic studies have revealed that cannabinoids induce chromosome aberrations in both in vivo and in vitro studies. These aberrations include chromosomal breaks, deletions, translocations, errors in chromosomal segregation, and hypoploidy, and are due to the clastogenic action of cannabinoids or to cannabinoid-induced disruption of mitotic events or both. Conflicting reports of the cytogenetic effects of cannabinoids are partially explained by the different experimental protocols, cell types, and animals used by investigators. Cannabinoids also suppress macromolecular synthesis (DNA, RNA, and protein) as well as reduce the level of histone gene expression. In general, these studies show that cannabinoids are detrimental to the health of an individual.
Cause for Serious Concern
Researchers in Sweden concede that cannabis smoke contains 400 compounds that are in relation to the 4,000 carcinogens in tobacco smoke.The important thing to remember, however, is that these numbers do not make marijuana a safer option.Because of its lower combustibility, it contains 50 percent more carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons including naphthalene, benzanthracene, and benzopyrene, than tobacco smoke.
Smoking, Inhaling, Increased Quantity
Also, the nature of smoking marijuana is that the inhaled smoke is held longer in the lungs than that of cigarette smoke, allowing the smoke to be more affective physically in the lungs, and in the brain both mentally and physically. With all things considered, the possibility of damaging DNA increases exponentially, as the amount of marijuana smoked increases.The smoking of 3-4 cannabis cigarettes a day is associated with the same degree of damage to bronchial mucus membranes as 20 or more tobacco cigarettes a day,” the Swedish research team adds.
Use Among Teens
According to recent studies, use of marijuana holds steady at 6.5 percent among 8th graders, 16.6 percent among 10th graders and 21.2 percent among 12th graders. Since 2014 these numbers have not increased but are still concerning health issues for teenagers to have at a crucial developmental stage. Though the altering of DNA can take affect on a young person or teenager that uses cannabis on a regular basis, the concern is that their genetics are being altered and can potentially affect the health of their offspring.
The solution
It is important to know that swift and strategized action is crucial. Whether you are a newly developing teen, or are a seasoned marijuana user, the importance of a proper treatment plan is the difference between success and failure. Can-Am Interventions will assist you with every step of your treatment and recovery. We will handle any, andall, accommodations necessary for your treatment plan, and will assure the ongoing guidance and support you deserve. Help is one phone call away.
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