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By Justine Kelsie

Know the health impacts before you smoke: AHS Medical Health Officer

Oct 18, 2018 | 2:18 PM

On the second day of marijuana legalization, Alberta Health Services is providing some tips for marijuana users.

Medical Officer of Health for the North Zone Dr. Albert de Villiers says people should know what they are getting into and learn about the health impacts of smoking weed.

“They made the rule, the cut off to go buy it legally is 18. Anyone under 25, your brain is still developing. Using cannabis can impact your brain development. Some of those impacts would be lifelong, they would stay with you for the rest of your life,” he says.

For those that choose to smoke, de Villiers encourages planning a safe ride home and keeping it out of reach of children. The Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis commission has said that marijuana edibles could be legal in 2019 and de Villiers says that will be something to watch for. 

“Currently, buying edibles or candies is not legal in Canada yet. But, you can get the oil and make your own products,” he says.

“Make sure you keep it away from kids and anyone under 18, but especially toddlers that crawl around the house and put everything in their mouths. They can suffer serious poisoning because their bodies are smaller than ours.”

De Villiers adds that it is very difficult to overdose on smoking marijuana, but you can call Health Link at 811 or visit a health care professional if you start feeling ill after consuming. 

AHS is providing information on their website about using the drug including a quiz on weed. 

 

by Justine Kelsie