Health Alert Manhattan: Marijuana smoke is not safe. Doctor Explains | Kansas – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

Know this: “Absolutely, we’re seeing a lot of patients who come in and think that cannabis smoking is safer than cigarettes. I’d like you to know that marijuana smoking may be just as harmful as tobacco. Cannabis smoke contains many of the same toxic chemicals and irritants as tobacco smoke. Also, you should know that cannabis smoke can increase your risk of getting upper respiratory infections. And, for my friends who are asthmatic, or have other lung conditions–you should consider cannabis smoking a direct nope!” Dr. Shelandra Bell, Family Medicine.

Beyond the News: This longitudinal survey study found that U.S. adults increasingly perceive daily cannabis smoking and cannabis secondhand smoke exposure as safer than tobacco–though is perception is based on very limited scientific evidence. With increased acceptance of cannabis use, exposure to secondhand smoke will rise. This will have a significant population health impact on people–including children.

A longitudinal survey of U.S. adults found public perceptions of cannabis safety are increasing faster than scientific understanding of its risks.