LETTERS: I refer to the spirited and well-intentioned appeal by Senator Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi to "take progressive action to allow the use of cannabis and hemp, especially cannabidiol (CBD), for medical purposes".
She added: "This is in line with Strategic Thrust Four of the Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities(OKU) 2016-2022, which is to increase access to quality health services for their wellbeing."
However, we must first consider in-depth the pros and cons of such a revolutionary move.
As alleged by the senator, it is true that there is evidence that cannabis can mitigate some of the symptoms of Parkinsonism, some forms of seizures and multiple sclerosis.
Currently, there is no evidence that cannabis has any benefit for those suffering from bipolar mental disorder.
It must be borne in mind that although the short-term use of cannabis may reduce the symptoms of some ailments, chronic use can have adverse long-term effects.
The United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) lists marijuana as "a Schedule 1 drug, alongside other potent drugs like meth, ecstasy and heroin, as having a "high potential for user dependence and abuse".
DEA has firmly established that the chronic use of marijuana derivatives can lead to addiction and cognitive impairments that increase the risk of depression and anxiety.
A catalogue of dangers associated with marijuana use:
SOME marijuana users may suffer from Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), characterised by severe vomiting accompanied by abdominal pains and nausea necessitating emergency treatment;
SOME women may use cannabis to fight off morning sickness associated with pregnancy, but the child in the womb may end up with anaemia, memory deficiency, low birth weight and attention deficit disorder;
MARIJUANA may cause hallucinations, impaired judgment in driving vehicles causing accidents, and even psychotic episodes.
PATIENTS have reported rapid heartbeats, increased blood pressure and atrial fibrillation, a common form of rhythm disorder in the heart after taking in the substance;
SMOKING cannabis has also been linked to lung and respiratory diseases similar to or worse than tobacco use; and,
CANNABIS use is regarded as having the "gateway effect" in that it paves the way for the use of harder drugs like heroin.
The "cons" outweigh the "pros" in marijuana use.
DR A. SOORIAN
Seremban, Negri Sembilan
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times