Summary
In their article devoted to marijuana, Volkow et al. delve into the topic of adverse effects associated with the regular use of this drug in young adulthood and adolescence (2219). The first negative health outcome associated with marijuana use refers to the risks of developing an addiction. Based on national marijuana studies and DSM-IV, the researchers conclude that addiction to marijuana is a non-debatable statement and that starting marijuana use in adolescence doubles or even quadruples the risks of cannabis use disorder (Volkow et al. 2220). Additionally, the review indicates links between impaired neural connectivity, declines in intelligence, and marijuana use in both adolescents and adults.
The article also explores other statements related to the effects of marijuana. For instance, regarding marijuana’s role as a gateway drug, some findings from animal research suggest that marijuana use may result in the development of multiple addictions. However, when it comes to humans, the effect can also be attributed to marijuana’s accessibility to people who are likely to abuse drugs, which is why the researchers encourage giving consideration to social factors when analyzing marijuana’s effects on health.
Based on previous researchers’ conclusions about cannabis use and brain activity, Volkow et al. state that both long-term and immediate outcomes of marijuana use include changes affecting a person’s ability to drive (2222). With that in mind, apart from the adverse health consequences, cannabis use may contribute to the risks of traffic accidents, including deadly ones. Despite reviewing multiple articles that dispel the myth about harmless and safe cannabis, the researchers recognize difficulties associated with establishing causal effects and limitations related to animal models. Thus, they encourage further research focused on the connections between cannabis use policies and health outcomes.
Reaction/Reflection
The article does not relate to me directly because I prefer to maintain a healthy lifestyle and stay away from substances causing addiction, including the drugs that are considered relatively “safe,” such as marijuana. The main connection that comes to my mind is that I know a few adults who have been using marijuana since early adolescence. From my observations, it seems that they have become more forgetful and struggle with multitasking much more than before starting marijuana use.
I agree with all of the article’s points since they are usually supported with evidence instead of being the result of personal opinions. For instance, the point that marijuana may affect brain development and activity is based on the results of clinical experiments and systematic reviews. Similarly, the point about car accidents stems from the results of high-quality simulation studies and drugged driving statistics.
Aside from the quality of research, I find many points credible since they align with my personal experiences. As an example, my friend’s parked car was hit by a driver who was in a state of marijuana intoxication. Later, the driver claimed that the car had moved, and he just had not managed to react immediately.
It seems that the risks of misunderstanding are minimal since the researchers usually make their points using scientific terms that are not widely utilized in daily life. However, one term that may cause confusion is “regular” (refers to the frequency of marijuana use). Among both common people and medical professionals, there is no universal definition of “regular” marijuana use. As a non-user of marijuana, I would consider smoking it at least once in a fortnight as “regular,” whereas the source refers to studies that may define “regular” as several times per week or even daily.
It does not significantly affect the writing’s meaning, but the readers may need to check the cited references to learn more about what is meant by regular marijuana use. Concerning biases, the researchers do not seem to be biased since they acknowledge the existence of other studies that report no harmful consequences of moderate marijuana use. Moreover, despite focusing on evidence related to health risks, they discuss the limitations of the existing studies, including difficulties associated with establishing cause-effect relationships.
Work Cited
Volkow, Nora D., et al. “Adverse Health Effects of Marijuana Use.” New England Journal of Medicine, vol. 370, no. 23, 2014, pp. 2219-2227.