Does smoking marijuana cause damage to the lungs?

           Everyone knows that smoking cigarettes are bad for the health of your lungs, but does marijuana show similar effects on frequent users? The smoke from burning marijuana leaves contain multiple carcinogens that are similar to those found in tobacco smoke. Marijuana leaves also have tar that will rest in your lungs after smoking. With that being said, there is no clear cut evidence showing that marijuana increases your chances of lung cancer. In 2006,  a study involving over 2000 people which showed that, “unlike tobacco, marijuana use did not increase the risk of lung cancer, even in subjects who reported smoking over 20,000 marijuana joints in their lifetime.” (Tashkin 2006). There is a theory floating around claiming that the THC in marijuana contains a strong anti-tumoral and  anti-cancer effects. Not enough research has been conducted on this for it to be valid. Although marijuana may not be responsible for lung cancer or other lung disorders (might actually help), it can cause chronic bronchitis, persistent cough, extra mucus, etc.. which can lead to other health concerns.

http://www.truthonpot.com/2013/01/27/does-marijuana-cause-lung-damage/

Jeremy A.M.