Smoking a joint less harmful to the lungs than cigarettes
The study examined over 5000 men and women from four American cities. The subjects were divided in tobacco smokers, non-smokers (control group) and cannabis users. As expected, the study showed that lung function declined with an increase of tobacco smoke exposure. In the case of smoking a joint, there was no indication of similar damage, based on moderate use.
The researcher used 1 joint a day as a rule of thumb. After seven ‘joint years’ x 1 joint a day no evidence of lung function damage. In the first year they actually found an increase in lung volume and capacity.
Lead researcher Mark Pletcher: “Our findings suggest that occasional use of marijuana for medicinal purposes may not be associated with adverse consequences on pulmonary function. ”
There are healthier alternatives to smoking, however...
Source:
Orlando Sentinel
