CASAT - Nevada PRC

Marijuana Myths and Facts

January:

Myth: Marijuana smoke is less carcinogenic than tobacco smoke.
Source: United Press International
Truth: Marijuana smoke contains 50-70% more cancer-causing chemicals than tobacco smoke.
Source: American Lung Association
One-liner: You want to make a resolution? Resolve to protect your lungs.

February:

Myth: Marijuana users would seek help if they were given calm, rational advice.
Source: Marijuana Policy Project
Truth: Of the 279,905 treatment admissions for marijuana abuse in 2002, less than 17% were voluntary.
Source: SAMHSA
One-liner: Yes, it is addictive. Yes, legal consequences are needed.

March:

Myth: Marijuana may be the least addictive or damaging of all commonly used psychoactive drugs.
Source: National Review/July 12, 2004
Truth: In 2001, the societal cost of marijuana use was an estimated 9.1 billion dollars.
Source: Rand Corporation
One-liner: Some use, all pay

April:

Myth: Marijuana causes little or no car-handling impairment, and even tends to make motorists more cautious.
Source: Drug Policy Alliance
Truth: In 2005, a study showed that 45% of motorists pulled over for reckless driving, (who were not impaired by alcohol), tested positive for marijuana.
Source: Office of National Drug Control Policy
One-liner: Who is on the road with you, and what have they used lately?

May:

Myth: Most marijuana users never use any other illegal drug. Source Drug Policy Alliance
Truth: The earlier kids start using marijuana, the more likely they are to become dependent on this or other illicit drugs later in life.
Source: Just Think Twice
One-liner: Is this a chance you want to take with your child?

June:

Myth: There is no evidence that anti-drug messages diminish youth interest in drug use.
Source: Drug Policy Alliance
Truth: Parents who express strong disapproval and who do not use drugs decrease the likelihood that their children will use.
Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health
One-liner: You are the message Services Administration