How Marijuana Affects Your Health

Marijuana is most commonly smoked. Research has found that marijuana damages the respiratory system just like smoking cigarettes do. Marijuana weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infection and illness. Studies have also shown that marijuana is harmful to the cardiovascular system because it raises blood pressure and heart rate. Marijuana also reduces fertility in both males and females. Research also supports that marijuana usage can ultimately result in cognitive impairments of the brain such as slow time reaction, difficulty concentrating and remembering, and difficulty performing complex tasks. A 2005 report for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration states that "marijuana use is associated with an increased risk of schizophrenia or other mental illnesses"(Johnson). There has never been a death as a result of a marijuana overdose. However, many experts believe marijuana is a gateway drug that leads users to try harder drugs such as cocaine and heroin.

I believe that any smoking is detrimental to your health. Cigarettes are bad for your health, but are legal in Alabama to anyone 19 years of age and older. Marijuana however is illegal for anyone to have and smoke. After reading and learning the possible effects it can permanently have on someones health I do not think marijuana should be made legal. Neither do I believe a temporary high is worth the risk. I do believe it is a gateway drug because when someone is high they gain confidence from the marijuana to try new, even more harmful drugs. I think that marijuana should continue to be illegal.


Nakaya, Andrea. Marijuana. San Diego, California: Reference Point Press, 2007. 20-32. Print.