NO ON MEASURE 2

To the editor:

I refer to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
for my plea for folks to vote against Measure 2. Marijuana is not
harmless! The evidence is clear if you know a chronic user, but
scientists have seen enough to quantify and describe it.

Cannabis Dependence (304.30) and Abuse (305.20), describe compulsive
use patterns and tolerance to the effects of cannabis among a majority
of chronic users, with reports of withdrawal symptoms (starts page
236).

Psychosocial problems similar to alcoholism are described. Cannabis
Intoxication (292.89) describes symptoms of impaired motor
coordination, euphoria, anxiety, sensation of slowed time, impaired
judgment, social withdrawal, overeating and tachycardia (irregular
heartbeat). Psychoactive effects are similar to those of
hallucinogens, particularly with high-grade marijuana (the currently
standard). About one-third of chronic users suffer mild forms of
depression and anxiety. Most chronic users suffer suppression of the
immune system and testosterone levels. "Marijuana smoke contains
larger amounts of known carcinogens than tobacco," resulting in
sinusitis, bronchitis, emphysema, pulmonary dysplasia and cancer.
Fatal traffic accidents involving cannabis are similar to those
involving alcohol.

Most troubling is that marijuana is associated with Cannabis-Induced
Psychotic Disorder (293.81 and .82) featuring prominent hallucinations
and/or delusions that can last for a month after intoxication.
Researchers have identified the birth defect syndrome Fetal Marijuana
Syndrome with similar features to FAS and a Marijuana-Induced Eating
Disorder resulting from the "munchies" and associated lack of
activity. Its medical benefits have largely been discredited by
legitimate research. It functions primarily as an intoxicant.

Marijuana is not a "safe, harmless" drug. Its intoxicating effects are
evidenced in reduced reaction times and impaired judgment for days and
sometimes weeks after last intoxication. Without standards to measure
intoxication and tests to stop "high" drivers, Alaskans would suffer
the consequences of legalizing this drug. Only someone who is
currently using marijuana could think this a good idea.

Lauri Sliney

Fairbanks