By Matt Fetinko

Northern Health looking to mitigate health effects of cannabis

Feb 15, 2019 | 2:32 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — Northern Health has been active in the community in the lead up to, and since, the legalization of cannabis.

During it’s February meeting, there were discussions around recreational use and how to best mitigate negative health effects. It’s only a matter of time before cannabis stores start popping up in the region, making it more readily available for residents. This stresses the importance of Northern Health working with the public at all levels to make sure they know the risks.

“We’ve been putting out some messaging on social media but then also engaging with other sectors like local government we’re planning work with schools to provide them with our resources and information around what other sectors can do to reduce any negative impacts of cannabis,” explained Dr. Andrew Gray, a Medical Health Officer for Northern Health.

Short- and long-term health effects of smoking cannabis have been well documented in the lead up to its legalization, some of which are comparable to other substances like tobacco, alcohol, and prescription drugs. Despite the negative stigma, cannabis legalization is not viewed as a bad thing, rather an opportunity.

Dr. Gray said, “this is an opportunity for us to make [cannabis] safer by bringing it into a market that we can actually control and understand better, so we can do research to really understand the risks and benefits of cannabis which are not as well understood as other substances. On the whole, I’m optimistic.”

2024 advocacy

2024 an incredibly sad year for many, says Prince George drug advocate

8h ago

Red Rock weigh scale

Ministry of Transportation redeploys staff following weigh scale fire

11h ago

Widlife

Two waterfowl lovers help ensure wintering ducks survive the winter

Dec 25, 2024