As the perception strengthens that marijuana is a safe drug, there have been a rash of studies suggesting cannibis is anything but safe, particularly for teens as their brains are still developing.

Researchers at the US-based National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) just released a report stating marijuana usage not only effects a teen’s brain function, particularly in the important areas of “critical thinking” and memory, but that the affects are long-lasting. Translated: these effects do not reverse even if the person quits using the drug later in life.

Their report, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, analyzed the results of numerous studies conducted on the effects of marijuana usage.

There were a couple other concerns expressed in their report:

• Over the years, producers of the drug have steadily increased Marijuana’s potency. Many of the studies showing the negative impact of Cannabis on brain development were based on a much less potent forms of Marijuana.
• The studies also revealed linking drinking with Cannabis usage made the problem worse.

Unfortunately, politicians are sending the wrong message about Marijuana. The American state Colorado legalized marijuana usage on January 1, 2014 and other states are considering similar actions. In Canada, Justin Trudeau — leader of the country’s opposition — has stated he would legalize Marijuana in Canada if his party formed government.

Such moves to legalize the drug leave the false perception marijuana is a “safe” drug.

Read more:

• Smoking marijuana as a teenager lowers IQ for life, scientists warn: Daily Mail

Related:

• Study shows Marijuana usage by teens may increase risk of schizophrenia and psychiatric problems
• Regular marijuana usage causes brain abnormalities and memory loss in teens
• Study shows even casual marijuana use affects the brain