This Practical Theorist, the fifth in a collaborative series, includes research on drug abuse in a concise, convenient format and offers strategies on how to use the data to mobilize communities, affect policy, and support local anti-drug coalition efforts to build drug-free communities.
"One of our top priorities is to rapidly and effectively disseminate our scientific findings to local experts and volunteers to assist them with community prevention and treatment efforts," says NIDA Director, Nora D. Volkow, M.D.
CADCA Chairman and CEO Gen. Arthur T. Dean emphasized the importance of this information sharing. "It is critical that we educate community leaders, parents, and young people about the harmful effects of drugs. This version of the Practical Theorist and the previous editions are an important part of our education and outreach efforts."
The first section in the Practical Theorist 5, "The Scope of the Marijuana Problem Today," provides the most recent statistics about marijuana use. Information includes the role that marijuana plays as a contributing factor in hospital emergency room visits and the number of arrestees in the criminal justice system who tested positive for marijuana.
The second section includes the latest research on marijuana and its effects on the brain, with findings such as: "Within minutes of inhaling marijuana smoke, there is an increase in heart rate - the heart may start pumping 20 to 50 beats per minute faster than normal." Other topics include the addictive nature of marijuana, the damage to short-term memory it causes, and its connection to mental illness. It also outlines the effects of marijuana use on an individual's school, work, and social life.
The final section highlights what communities can do to address the growing problem of marijuana use, such as educating youth; ensuring marijuana concerns aren't pushed aside by other drugs; educating the community; supporting drug abuse treatment; and encouraging parents to maintain an active role in their children's lives.
The Practical Theorist series is designed to help local community groups by providing the latest science-based information in easy-to-understand language so they can educate their members and the public about drug abuse.
