Smoking up… what’s the harm?

        Almost all young adults are aware of the consequences of smoking cigarettes on health.   However, the risks associated with smoking marijuana and the effects it has on social smoking of tobacco products are far less known. 

        Marijuana is an illegal tobacco alternative that

is used by some university students.  Like cigarettes, marijuana contains many chemicals – specifically, up to 400 different chemicals can be found in marijuana.

 

        Smoking a marijuana joint in comparison with smoking a tobacco cigarette:

•          Puts 5 times more carbon monoxide in your bloodstream
•          Puts 3 times more tar in smokers’ lungs

        In addition, smoking one joint is the equivalent to smoking 2.5-5 cigarettes with respect to decreased lung function and obstructing airflow!  The smoke from marijuana joint contains 50-70% higher levels of cancer causing chemicals!

        When put in comparison with a cigarette smoker, someone who smokes five joints a week would be taking in as many cancer causing chemicals as a cigarette smoker who smokes a pack a day!  Considering the severity of the consequences related to this mind-altering drug, you would think young adults would receive more information on the negative effects of smoking marijuana joint. 

        Marijuana is often used by individuals who also use tobacco products, and thus the two can be linked.  Avoidance of marijuana products when someone quits smoking cigarettes can also increase their odds of remaining smoke-free!

        What do you think about marijuana use and the similar health effects of smoking a joint and smoking a cigarette? Let us know, comment on our blog or Facebook wall!

Reference: Leave the Pack Behind, Marijuana and Tobacco Use Fact Sheet