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Reefer sanity

Reefer sanity

WITH its lurid sensationalism, the film Reefer Madness about the evils of marijuana use has long been a cult classic. But marijuana also can help alleviate nausea for some patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy. More and more Americans have come to understand that marijuana for medical purposes is far from evil.

That point resonates in the findings of a survey by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press conducted last month with 1,500 adults reached by telephone. The Pew study estimates that nearly three-quarters of Americans are in favor of their state allowing the sale and use of medical marijuana, if it is prescribed by a doctor. Only 23 percent are opposed.

It is not surprising that about 80 percent of young people not yet 30 favor medical marijuana use, more than the 63 percent of those age 65 or older, who may be more traditionally minded. But even 54 percent of conservative Republicans support medical marijuana use, the least support of any group in the survey, but still a majority.

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Thirteen states have now passed laws permitting medical marijuana use, and this latest poll is a further sign that the American people are less cautious than their politicians. As more people hear about patients who have reduced their pain or settled their stomachs by using marijuana, public attitudes are likely to change further.

As it is, the Pew study did not find majority support for the notion that medical marijuana will inevitably lead to the legalization of all marijuana - 46 percent think that allowing medical marijuana use makes it easier for everybody, sick or not, to get marijuana, but 48 percent think it doesn't make a difference.

Reefer madness is giving ground to reefer sanity.

First Published April 13, 2010, 8:40 a.m.

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