Quote Originally Posted by birdgirl73
Doctors who see heavy pot smokers have been documenting cases of lung inflammation and illnesses since they began keeping records, just not documenting higher rates of cancer, as I've already said now, twice. I know--and most well-informed doctors know--that weed's not associated with an increased risk of lung cancer except when people are heavy cigarette users, too, and they get the risk through that exposure.

When I say lung inflammation and illnesses, I'm referring to asthma, bronchitis or pneumonia that's been made worse by weed smoking. Your "no documented casees of cancer" response gives me the feeling that you're not reading or understanding what I'm saying--including understanding the Tashkin study you've been posting and re-posting, Captain. If you're saying that no documentation has been made associating it with higher risks of cancer, you're right. I've already agreed with that twice before and knew that before our discussion here began. I've posted links to that study in numerous places before, in fact, as has our friend Storm Crow. But if you're saying that no documentation has been made associating weed smoking with aggravating other pulmonary conditions than cancer, I think you must mean that no published, documented studies have come out confirming this fact. And to be honest, none need to come out. It's common knowledge. Ask any cardio-pulmonary physician, nurse, or respiratory therapist who's worked in the pulmonary ward of a public or teaching hospital what they've seen in heavy cannabis smokers, and they'll confirm this fact, as weed smokers are confirming here with reports of their symptoms.
Sorry to be a nuisance, this reply clears up what you are saying to me. I did some further research (searched what you recommended) and although respirtory problems caused by heavy cannabis smoking do exist. Symptoms dissapear when smoking is discontinued. I can't find any research/examples of permanent symptoms. Do you know any (concerned about my own health)?

I smoke everyday when I can find time and haven't had any lung problems that are noticable. Just today I ran a mile in 5:57 (not that this is scientific research by no means). I believe and allways have believed that cannabis is "hard on the lungs" but know that it won't lead to cancer (may even have a protective affect). But whatever syptoms people do seem to receive are gone when smoking is discontinued?...