STUDIES HAVE VERIFIED MARIJUANA'S EFFICACY

Hawai'i's medical marijuana law has done enormous good for thousands
of suffering patients ("Hawai'i medical pot use up 87 percent," Nov.
24).

However, it's unfortunate that Keith Kamita of the Narcotics
Enforcement Division sees a problem with use of marijuana to treat
severe pain.

In the last two years, three published clinical trials have verified
marijuana's safety and efficacy for treating pain caused by nerve
damage related to multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS and other causes. And
marijuana is far less toxic and addictive than commonly used pain drugs.

Mr. Kamita should familiarize himself with the medical literature
before stating opinions on medical issues.

Meanwhile, Hawai'i residents may find that implementation of the law
becomes much easier after the inauguration of Barack Obama, who has
promised to end federal interference with state medical marijuana laws.

Bruce Mirken Director of communications, Marijuana Policy Project

Washington, D.C.