To turn on CNN and hear one of the most respected doctors , neurosurgeon and CNN’s chief medical correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, recant his previous statements on the use of marijuana may seem a little weird. Dr. Gupta says we have been “systematically misled” on marijuana. He has spent the past year working on a new documentary called “Weed.” He traveled around the world to interview and speak to medical leaders, experts, patients, and , growers asking them tough questions. He admits that what he found was “stunning and enlightening.”
Dr. Sanjay Gupta issued a statement via CNN, “I apologize because I didn’t look hard enough, until now. I didn’t look far enough. I didn’t review papers from smaller labs in other countries doing some remarkable research, and I was too dismissive of the loud chorus of legitimate patients whose symptoms improved on cannabis.”
He further says that although he has had a change of heart in regards to smoking marijuana, he doesn’t advise individuals under 25 to engage in smoking due to brain development.
I do want to mention a concern that I think about as a father. Young, developing brains are likely more susceptible to harm from marijuana than adult brains. Some recent studies suggest that regular use in teenage years leads to a permanent decrease in IQ. Other research hints at a possible heightened risk of developing psychosis.
Much in the same way I wouldn’t let my own children drink alcohol, I wouldn’t permit marijuana until they are adults. If they are adamant about trying marijuana, I will urge them to wait until they’re in their mid-20s when their brains are fully developed.
You can catch Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s groundbreaking documentary “WEED” at 8 p.m. ET August 11 on CNN.
Check out which celebs who are using marijuana for medicinal purposes and those who are not but are in favor of it being legal.
