Due to studies regarding medical marijuana, the US Surgeon General agrees that the plant has possible benefits for treating various physical and mental conditions. However, more research is needed in order to strengthen the case of using marijuana for medicinal purposes in many communities.
US Surgeon General Supports Medical Benefits Through Scientific Research
The US Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, admits that marijuana can be beneficial in certain situations. As Dr. Murthy believes in scientific discovery and basing information on such facts, his views regarding the substance contradict current drug policies and practices in most areas. When Gayle King, CBS This Morning host, asked Murthy about his views on marijuana, the doctor responded that policies need to be made that are driven by data from research.
Scientific Research Strengthens Beliefs Among Many
The views of the US Surgeon General are shared among many physicians as well as legislators. Laws within 23 states as well as the District of Columbia have permitted the use of marijuana for various ailments. Organizations such as the American Nurses Association, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, and the American Academy of Pediatrics have the same belief that medical marijuana has potential to ease suffering.
DEA Classified Marijuana Next to Heroin
According to the Drug Enforcement Agency, marijuana is a Schedule I narcotic, which heroin is also listed as, and is believed to have no medical value. When the DEA devised this list of drugs, there was very little research done to support medical benefits. Additionally, crystal meth is listed as a Schedule II drug and is stated as having “less abuse potential.” However, scientific discovery has proven that the classification system of the DEA is obsolete and needs to be revised.
Evidence Mounts as Congress Debates the Laws
Although the US Surgeon General is in support of the use of medical marijuana, Congress and the Department of Justice are still in debate regarding usage laws. Unfortunately, research may be restricted due to the DEAs classification of marijuana as a controlled substance. However, science supports the use of a medical marijuana card in Portland to treat certain symptoms. Although Congress may be dragging its heels, Portland is among many that allows the use of marijuana as a treatment.
