Pubdate: Thu, 24 Apr 2003
Source: Vancouver Sun (CN BC)
Copyright: 2003 The Vancouver Sun
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/vancouver/vancouversun/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/477
Author: Dr. Leonard George
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n576/a06.html

NO CAUSE-AND EFFECT BETWEEN POT AND MENTAL ILLNESS

While I agree with Frank Sterle Jr.'s contention that there is a lot of 
media misinformation about cannabis, I must point out that assertions such 
as his -- that "pot-consumers' mental health depends in part on the 
reduction or prevention of cannabis consumption" -- are part of the problem 
(Pot can exacerbate some mental illness, Letters, April 23).

The study cited by Mr. Sterle reported a positive correlation between 
levels of marijuana use and symptom chronicity among schizophrenics. Such 
studies can tell us nothing about the cause-and-effect relations between 
the correlated terms. Perhaps cannabis worsens schizophrenia, or chronic 
schizophrenics are more likely to try self-medicating with marijuana, or a 
third factor affects both cannabis use and schizophrenia.

Even if marijuana use does negatively affect schizophrenics, this casts no 
light on the effects of cannabis on non-schizophrenics. Public policy on 
recreational drugs should be based on a clear understanding of the complex 
biological, psychological and social contexts involved, not on 
misinterpreted research outcomes.

Dr. Leonard George

Vancouver
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