LET SCIENCE DECIDE

Montel William's endorsement of so-called medical marijuana is
disturbing when you consider the fact that less than a year ago he
hosted a locally produced special and public service announcement
about the dangers of crystal meth and other drugs.

The well-funded drug-legalization movement, armed with advertising and
public relations experts, continues to manipulate the media through a
smoke screen of compassionate use for people with diseases such as MS,
cancer and AIDS. Scientific studies show the opposite to be true.
Unfortunately, many people suffering with these illnesses are being
unfairly used by groups whose real agenda is to legalize marijuana.

A report by the Institute of Medicine states that marijuana has
potential as a medicine, but it is undermined by the fact that
patients must inhale harmful smoke. Until caregivers develop a safe
and effective delivery system, they must consider the health problems
that can result from smoking when deciding whether to recommend
marijuana to patients.

In addition, the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana is THC. It
is legally available by prescription in a pharmaceutical capsule form.

There is a Food and Drug Administration approval process for testing
the safety and effectiveness of any new medication before it is
marketed. Media celebrity endorsements are not part of that process.

It is our hope that scientific input on medical marijuana will take it
out of the media and political arenas. It belongs in the laboratory
and in the hands of researchers and medical professionals working to
help people in pain.

Kathleen Altman Prevention Coordinator Oakland County Health
Division-Office of Substance Abuse Services Pontiac

Dana Gire Prevention Coordinator Macomb County Office of Substance
Abuse Mt. Clemens

Andre Johnson Program Manager Partnership for a Drug-Free Detroit
Detroit

Theresa Webster Prevention Administrator Southeast Michigan Community
Alliance
Taylor