SCIENCE JOURNAL 2018

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they generally continue to use it, ignorant to the health consequences (Melemis, 2018). The consequence of the incorrect belief that smoking marijuana is harmless leads to the social pressure faced by teenagers to begin smoking the drug. If these people knew the statistics and research into the adverse effects of the drug, it is likely some of these drug users would never have begun. There are also economic consequences from the belief that marijuana is harmless. With some evidence suggesting the use of marijuana may be as ‘harmless’ as tobacco (a legal drug), there is a push to legalise recreational marijuana in Australia, mirroring several U.S states (SBS News, 2016). Whilst the effects are similar, both drugs are harmful for the smoker’s health. Smoking tobacco is one of the leading causes of death in Australia, with “a tobacco-related death about every 28 minutes” (Australian Government, 2012). For the government however, legalising marijuana could be appealing, due to potential economic benefits. Similarly to tobacco, legalising marijuana for recreational use would result in money earnt through taxes. In Colorado, U.S.A, the decision to legalise recreational marijuana “brought in more than $270 million in the first quarter of 2016 alone” (Koslow, 2016). The economic consequence of the claim could encourage the government to legalise marijuana in Australia, bringing severe implications for society. Marijuana has major physical and mental health implications. The THC content of the drug interferes with communication between vital neurons in the body, with prolonged use leading to permanent damage and mental health issues. Impacted by social and economic factors, marijuana and its’ use in Australia has led to significant debate. However, the extremely harmful nature of the substance makes it a threat to Australian society.

SC J SI

13

Somerset College Journal of Scientific Issues

Year 10