Blog 4: Death from Cannabis in Germany

Summary:
     In Germany, two deaths have been reported due to cannabis use. The two young men were in their 20’s, both appeared healthy outwardly. However, their autopsies showed that they both had underlying heart problems. Cannabis use does increase heart rate or blood pressure when lying down, which may have cause their hearts to beat irregularly. Death from cannabis use is very rare so they are not considered to be toxic. Cannabis use is not usually not associated with death or physical problems. However, because of this incident, it is now being suggested to avoid cannabis use if you have heart problems.  

Analysis:
This article on cannabis relates to the chapter that we are covering in lecture this week. The article did not state whether the two men used the cannabis plant in the form of hashish or marijuana for drug use. Although cannabis is not known to be extremely harmful, it is very powerful when it is in the form of hashish, according to the chapter covered in the book. Also, many places are currently facing the decision of making marijuana legal. With that being said, the findings from the article about how a person’s cardiovascular health could be associated with some risks are very important. If the use of cannabis becomes legal all over the world, the risks must be considered with them as well. One of the top causes of death here in the United States is due to cardiovascular problems. With that being said, if use of cannabis becomes legal, then concern for the safety of use will definitely need to be evaluated.

Link:
http://news.yahoo.com/german-study-finds-cannabis-triggered-2-deaths-205335372.html