Healthy Living
FULL SPEED AHEAD?
It does not help to speed up if one is going in the wrong direction. This thought occurred to me with regard to a new study by the Journal of the American Heart Association, which suggests that smoking marijuana could be bad for the heart. It is not the first time this issue has been raised, nor the only undesirable result that has been identified.
Initially, it should be noted that the restrictions against its use are rapidly diminishing. Not only allowing for its use in medical practice but for recreational purposes. Which would be welcomed if this were warranted, but otherwise compounding the problem.
Now the recent study does not conclude that the practice is necessarily bad for the cardiovascular system. While there is some evidence that this is the case, cause and effect relationships are notoriously difficult to establish. Especially when there are complex factors involved, as in this instance.
Even so, data from a national system of centers in France that gathers information about drug abuse, concluded that from 2006 through 2010, 35 patients suffered heart problems thought to be caused by marijuana use. Nine of these people died as a result. Consequently, the study’s lead researcher concluded that there needs to be more study of the situation. Rather than proceed with endorsing the practice given the preliminary results.
Moreover, this is not the only risk seemingly involved in its use. Perhaps most notable, its adverse effect as a lung irritant. In this regard, it is similar to but likely more detrimental than smoking tobacco. The latter is a matter of personal concern to me, since the death of one sibling and perhaps another was attributed to this more common practice.
It also appears clear that the use of marijuana adversely effect one’s mental process. Resulting in impaired judgement and lessened coordination. Along with associated dangers, as when driving an automobile.
Persons likewise experience more difficulty in their interpersonal relationships. Whether in regard to family, friends, or business associates. So that the social structure tends to deteriorate as a projected result.
The practice also proves to be addictive. So that a person feels pressured to continue, even though he or she may wish otherwise. Then, if determined to discontinue, one experiences severe withdrawal symptoms. Accordingly, he or she is subject to self-indulged bondage.
Conversely, it is said that there are positive results. Primarily as a means of reducing pain. That is, providing the practice is continued, or the cause for pain is eliminated. While there are alternative means, with seemingly less trade-off.
Granted, the practice can be emotionally gratifying. This in itself would justify its use for some, while certainly not for others. Youth are especially vulnerable in this regard, if given the option. While encouraged by their associates.
Now society has various levels of handling such controversial issues. Prohibition is the most vigorous of the restraining means. While effective only insofar as it can be enforced. The prohibition of alcoholic beverage serves as a classic case in point.
Restriction is a second means to discouraging participation. Such as allowing its use for what is deemed medical treatment. While not authorizing it for recreational purposes.
Disapproval is yet a third option. Such as has been increasingly expressed concerning the use of tobacco. This can be readily seen when comparing the films of a past generation with the current one. So that the smoking that was once more the norm is now seldom depicted.
Approval constitutes the final approach. Insofar as the practice is allowed as a socially acceptable practice. Along with the subtle incentive associated with increased tax income.
Intoxication is perhaps the nearest biblical equivalent to marijuana use. As for the former, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise” (Prov. 20:1). “The opposite of the humble alertness and diligence of the disciples of wisdom is the mood of dogmatism (mocker is the same word as ‘scorner’ or ‘scoffer’ in the previous verse) and aggressiveness (raging) introduced by strong drink (which is given here a personality dominating the drinker)” (Derek Kidner, Proverbs, p. 136).
So repeated for emphasis, “It does not help speed up if one is going in the wrong direction.” And the burden of proof should lie with those who promote its use, while disregarding its apparent risks.
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