The certification of physicians within Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program has become a contentious issue, underscored by the case of Dr. Matthew Roman. This situation highlights the complexities of balancing regulatory oversight with accessibility to medical marijuana for patients. As the debate unfolds, it raises critical questions about the criteria for doctor certification and the impact...
Category: Viewpoints
Nicotine Addiction and Vapes: Why Prescription Access Matters
The debate over vaping has intensified with experts advocating for stricter controls on the sale and distribution of nicotine-based vapes. As public health concerns mount, Professor Anthony Milton has voiced strong opinions about the addictive nature of vaping products and the potential health risks they pose. This article explores the argument for making vapes available...
El Mayo’s Arrest: A New Chapter in Cartel Crackdown
The recent arrest of Ismael “El Mayo” Zambada, a key figure in the Sinaloa Cartel, alongside Joaquín Guzmán López, the son of “El Chapo,” marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking. Captured after their plane landed in New Mexico, these arrests represent a significant blow to one of Mexico’s most notorious...
Denver’s ‘Safe Supply’ Proposal Sparks Debate
Denver’s City Council recently issued a proclamation endorsing several controversial drug policies, including a “safe supply” initiative that aims to provide pharmaceutical-grade opioids to individuals with addiction. This policy is intended to reduce harm by offering a controlled supply of drugs, supposedly safer than those found in illicit markets. However, critics argue that this approach...
David Gilmour and Polly Samson: On Death and Drugs
David Gilmour, the legendary Pink Floyd guitarist, and his wife, novelist Polly Samson, recently shared insights into their personal and professional lives in an interview with The Independent. The couple discussed their collaboration on Gilmour’s latest solo album, “Luck and Strange,” which marks his return to music after nine years. The album, deeply personal and...
Teen Faces Struggles After Father’s Heroin Overdose
A 15-year-old teen is grappling with the emotional aftermath of losing their father to a heroin overdose, as recounted in a poignant letter to Dear Abby. The teen, who discovered their father upon exiting the shower, is haunted by recurring memories of the tragic event and is struggling with feelings of guilt and despair. Despite...
Bouncing Back from Addiction to Aspiration on India’s Soccer Pitches: Exploring Drug Prevention & Community Development with 4th Wave Foundation
In the latest instalment of the Unnecessary Harm Podcast, Season 2 Episode 5, host Shane Varcoe takes listeners on an inspiring journey to Kerala, India, exploring the groundbreaking work of the 4th Wave Foundation. This eye-opening episode shines a spotlight on the foundation’s innovative approach to substance abuse prevention and community development, centred around their...
Recovery Housing: A Viable Solution to Homelessness
In a compelling opinion piece, Julian Somers discusses the pressing issues of addiction and homelessness and advocates for evidence-based solutions, as published by the Vancouver Sun. Somers highlights the success of recovery-oriented housing, which has shown significant effectiveness and cost savings compared to current approaches. He points to international examples, such as Portugal’s focus on...
Will Pro-Pot Policies Cost Trump the Election?
In a recent opinion piece by Luke Niforatos for the Daily Caller, the discussion revolves around the potential pitfalls of pro-marijuana policies in the context of Donald Trump’s election prospects. Niforatos argues that Trump’s ambiguous stance on marijuana legalisation could be troubling for key demographics, including parents, medical professionals, and law enforcement. He emphasises that...
When Cannabis Clouds the Path to Healing
Navigating the complex emotions of grief can be a challenging journey, as one individual discovered when they attempted to manage their sorrow with cannabis. The personal account shared on Medium highlights how the initial use of cannabis seemed to provide temporary relief from the overwhelming pain of loss. However, the reliance on cannabis soon began...