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  1. development of psychotic disorders earlier with adolescent use
  2. suppresses immune function, which can promote cancer growth
  3. increases risk of psychotic illness by up to 40%
  4. negatively impacts male sexual performance

States that have legalized marijuana as “medicine” have seen an increase in car fatalities and teen and adolescent use. Colorado, during the five-year period from 2006 to 2011, saw a 148% increase in fatal crashes involving THC, the chemical found in marijuana. (Source: Colorado Department of Transportation)

The medical director for the Denver Health adolescent substance abuse treatment program, Dr. Chris Thurstone, testified before the Colorado Statehouse on March 5, 2010, that they had clearly seen the effects of medical marijuana. “Referrals are up about 300% and we have a 2-3 month waiting list for services. Patients tell us that they have easy access to marijuana through friends who have registry cards.”… “Schools account for 30% of our referrals and are telling us that young people with marijuana registry cards are selling marijuana to students, and more and more students are showing up to class high. “

When a substance is classified as appropriate for “medical” use, the perception of risk deceases and the use increases, especially by those least able or likely to research the harm: youth, drug users and the disadvantaged. The use of marijuana as “medicine” should only be decided by those in the medical research field and then put through the rigorous approval process of the FDA, only after studying and weighing the benefits and risks.

The following Illinois members of the Christian Medical & Dental Associations ask that you oppose Illinois’ bill to legalize medical marijuana.

Sincerely,

David Stevens, MD, MA (Ethics)
CEO, Christian Medical & Dental Associations