U OF C STUDY TO SMOKE OUT CANNABIS TRUTH

Smoking out the truth of cannabis dependency is the goal of University
of Calgary researchers.

They hope to create enough of a buzz over the project to attract 120
Calgary research subjects whose marijuana consumption was once a
problem, said study lead Jonathan Stea.

"Its illicit nature makes it difficult to study," said
Stea.

The topics of marijuana dependency and treatment "is very
understudied," he added.

What previous research has found is that 25% of those seeking
substance abuse rehabilitation include marijuana among the drugs used.

And one-third to one-half of those using cannabis daily are at risk of
having a problem with the drug, said Stea.

One out of 10 users will develop a disorder with the drug -- defined as
harming employment, school or family ties.

"But it's still possible for someone to use cannabis on a regular
basis and not have a problem," said Stea.

"The majority of people who use cannabis will not develop a
problem."

Even so, he said, the growing perception of marijuana use as harmless
is troubling, given there even evidence the drug can be physically
addictive for some.

"Obviously, the withdrawals aren't as harmful as it is for something
like heroin," said Stea.

Most who do recover from problem pot use do so on their own, without
professional help.

Stea said he wants to hear from them and others to better understand
how to assist problem cannabis users.

They'll undergo a two-hour interview to determine how they recovered --
whether they stopped using entirely or cut back.

"It's an exploratory study, so we can do more research and influence
less intrusive treatment such as self-help," he said.

Participants in the one-to-two-year study won't be compensated with
marijuana but will be paid $20 for their efforts, said Stea.

More information can be found at Calgary-Marijuana-study.ca or by
calling 403-210-9580.