Cannabis Legalization and Public Health: Balancing Benefits and Risks

In the fight for and against the legalization of cannabis, people often go to extremes. Some of them demonize marijuana, while others consider it the most valuable product ever. In this review from the weed store UK, we will try to consider the pros and cons of legalization based on scientific research and official data.

Why it is so difficult to come to a consensus on cannabis legalization

It seems that the main problem is the disparity of data. Studies on the same issue can show diametrically opposite conclusions. For example, some researches prove that the legalization of cannabis leads to an increase in violent crime. Other studies deny this, showing that the crime rate even decreases. This confusion applies to almost every aspect.

Another problem is that in-depth studies of the cannabis effect on humans have begun relatively recently. And it’s even harder to determine the impact on society. First, hundreds of variables must be taken into account. Secondly, the earliest legalization at the state level occurred only 10 years ago — in Uruguay in 2013.

So the issue of legalization definitely requires more research. For now, let’s discuss the available data.

Potential benefits of cannabis legalization

There are more of them than it might seem at first glance.

Opening the way to medical cannabis research

While recreational cannabis is still controversial, researchers are more unanimous about medical one (with a high CBD content and no psychoactive THC). It can definitely have health benefits. Medical cannabis helps people with the following diseases and conditions:

• Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy in cancer treatment;
• Lack of appetite associated with AIDS/HIV;
• Chronic pain of various types;
• Epilepsy;
• Parkinson’s disease;
• Alzheimer’s disease;
• Migraine, etc.

Cannabis-based medicines often have a milder effect on the body and fewer side effects than traditional medicines for these diseases.

However, as long as cannabis is illegal, there are limited opportunities to study its therapeutic potential. Perhaps, we are losing out on a potentially effective medicine due to public prejudice.

To date, the FDA has not approved cannabis for the treatment of any disease or condition. However, it has approved four “cannabinoid” medicines: three synthetic cannabis-related and one cannabis-derived. They are prescribed mainly for seizures and nausea and vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy.

Reducing opioid-related deaths

Cannabis is used in substitution therapy, i.e., when a person needs to be relieved of an addiction, such as alcohol or drugs. It can also be used as an alternative to opioid painkillers.

Research on alcohol substitution with marijuana is still controversial. But there is encouraging data on opioids: a 25% reduction in opioid overdose deaths associated with the legalization of medical cannabis. And in one survey, 41% of people said they stopped or reduced their opioid consumption when they started taking marijuana.

Improving health in cannabis users

There is a problem: what is illegal is often of poor quality. Cannabis purchased from unreliable sellers often contains pesticide residues and toxic chemicals. As a rule, legalization comes with state control and regulation. Manufacturers are subject to requirements regarding the rules of cultivation, fertilization, sales, labeling, packaging, etc. The quality of goods and services increases when there are clear requirements, control, and competition.

Potential disadvantages of cannabis legalization

Most of them are related to the non-rational consumption of weed.

The use of marijuana by children and teenagers

The effects of marijuana on children and teenagers are negative. Frequent use can have a negative impact on development, mental abilities, attention, memory, etc. Some studies (although others refute them) show that people who started using marijuana early and frequently have lower levels of IQ.

The other side of the problem is the accidental taking of marijuana by children, for example, by swallowing. This can lead to poisoning and medical emergencies. That’s why countries that have legalized cannabis, such as Canada, require secure packaging for marijuana products.

Risk of road accidents

Colorado State Police statistics for 2015 show that 15% of drunk driving violations are related to marijuana consumption.

A person who drives while intoxicated is at a higher risk of getting into a fatal accident because their reactions and perception of reality are altered.

Development of addiction

Contrary to popular belief, cannabis can cause addiction. Occasional use of low doses usually has no negative long-term consequences. But frequent use, especially in large doses, can pose a threat. People who started using marijuana in early childhood or teenage years are at risk.

Experience of countries where cannabis is legalized

There is evidence that decriminalization has almost no effect on marijuana consumption. In the USA, there are statistics showing that marijuana use in states where it is legalized is higher than in states where it is prohibited. But this was the trend even before legalization.

Some evidence suggests that legalization may be associated with lower suicide rates. The data is imprecise, but it may be related to the fact that cannabis can replace other, more dangerous painkillers and opiates.

Rules for smart consumption

As a rule, following the basic rules of reasonable consumption helps to avoid issues. Rules for smart cannabis consumption:

1. It is forbidden to consume cannabis underage. The age threshold is usually between 18 and 21 years old.
2. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not allowed to take marijuana. There is evidence that taking marijuana during pregnancy can impair fetal development. Children born to women who smoked weed during pregnancy may have developmental disabilities.
3. It is forbidden to drive while high. The reactions and perception of the world change, so the ability to respond adequately to the traffic situation is reduced.
4. Avoid frequent use and high doses. Uncontrolled use can lead to negative consequences, such as paranoia, and in the long run — to addiction.
5. Avoid public use, even if it is legal in the country. Just for ethical reasons: some people do not like the smell of smoke, so we urge you to respect their personal space.

Being responsible is the key to making smart decisions, and this applies not only to cannabis.

Where to buy quality cannabis

If you want to buy cannabis, you need to understand exactly how it will affect your body and mind. Stores like HighTHC describe in detail how you will feel after taking the weed. Some strains will cause a surge of energy, euphoria, and joy, some will unleash your creativity and help you generate ideas, and some will promote deep relaxation in your body and mind. Check out, for example, the Amnesia strain: https://highthc.shop/product/amnesia-hash/. 

Parcels from the HighTHC shop are usually delivered within one week to any location in the United Kingdom. The ordering procedure is built to protect your privacy. Thus, payment is made exclusively in cryptocurrency, and the order is sent in reliable opaque packaging.