TOBACCO USE HARMFUL, BUT MORE ATTENTION NEEDED ON POT

Few would question that tobacco smoke is harmful to health ("Report:
Just one cigarette is bad," News, Dec. 9).

However, it is extremely hypocritical for some across the country to
push for the legalization of marijuana, which can be even more
harmful than tobacco.

The medical profession has been relatively silent on this because it
is becoming more politically correct to accept marijuana, not
criticize it. This in itself is a sad statement.

The effects on most users of marijuana are an increase in heart rate,
redness of the eyes, and dryness of the mouth and throat.

Studies show that the drug temporarily impairs short-term memory,
alters the sense of time, and reduces the ability to perform tasks
requiring concentration, swift reactions and coordination, such as
operating machinery or driving a car.

Feelings of euphoria, relaxation, altered state of body image and
bouts of exaggerated laughter also are commonly reported. Some
scientists think that marijuana can be particularly harmful to lungs
because of the deep inhalation process. Marijuana smoke has been
found to have more cancer causing agents than cigarette smoke. Many
in the medical field think people with heart conditions are at a high
risk of further heart ailments if they use marijuana. The drug can
also increase a user's risk for heart attack, and findings also
suggest that regular use may have a toxic effect on embryos and fetuses.

Tobacco smoking is being rightfully demonized, yet the use of
marijuana, which can be even more harmful, is being promoted. Why?

Al DiLascia
Chicopee, Mass