Marijuana Use Linked <br />To Increased Risk , of ER Care, Hospitalization.<br />The study was conducted by Canadian researchers and published in the journal BMJ Open Respiratory Research on June 27.<br />It found that cannabis user were 22 percent more likely to require emergency or hospital services.<br />Researchers' findings were consistent even after accounting for other factors, such as alcohol and illicit drug use.<br />Cannabis use is not as benign and safe as some might think, Dr. Nicholas Vozoris, Study Author, University of Toronto, via CNN.<br />Our study demonstrates that the use of this substance is associated with serious <br />negative outcomes, , Dr. Nicholas Vozoris, Study Author, University of Toronto, via CNN.<br />... specifically, ED <br />(emergency department) <br />visits and hospitalizations, Dr. Nicholas Vozoris, Study Author, University of Toronto, via CNN.<br />Physical injuries were the most common reason for visiting the hospital.<br />Physical bodily injury was the leading cause of emergency department visits and hospitalizations among the cannabis users, with respiratory reasons coming in a close second, Dr. Nicholas Vozoris, Study Author, University of Toronto, via CNN.<br />Earlier studies have linked cannabis use to negative effects on higher-level thinking.<br />[For youth, this could] consequently lead to reduced educational attainment, and, in adults, to poor work performance and dangerous driving. , Dr. Alexandre Dumais, Study Co-Author, University of Montreal, via CNN.<br />Researchers suggested that heavy cannabis users could suffer more severe consequences.<br />These consequences may be worse in regular and heavy users, Dr. Alexandre Dumais, Study Co-Author, University of Montreal, via CNN.<br />The author of the study suggested that his findings are significant enough to be considered by policy makers.<br />Our study results should set off ‘alarm bells’ in the minds of the public, health care professionals, and political leaders, Dr. Nicholas Vozoris, Study Author, University of Toronto, via CNN
