Minister Ambrose meets with medical professionals and researchers to discuss the risks for youth
News Release
For Immediate Release
April 30, 2014
Ottawa - Today, Health Minister Rona Ambrose hosted a roundtable with representatives of the healthcare community and research experts to discuss the scientific evidence of the risks associated with the use of marijuana by youth, especially over the long term.
This meeting builds on an announcement where Minister Ambrose announced funding for A Health Promotion and Drug Prevention Strategy for Canada's Youth - a national project led by the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse (CCSA). The goal of this project is to prevent illicit drug use, including marijuana, among Canadians between the ages of 10 and 24 through education, national prevention standards and building sustainable partnerships.
Smoking and using marijuana can be dangerous and harmful to health. It is not an approved drug or medicine in Canada and Health Canada does not endorse or promote the use of marijuana.
"As Health Minister, I am standing side by side with medical professionals and researchers with a clear message -- There are serious health risks for youth associated with marijuana. It is not safe. It should not be promoted or endorsed. Together, with our partners we will work to make sure youth and parents have the right information about the risks associated with smoking and using marijuana."
Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
"Research has shown the negative impact of marijuana on developing minds. As a child psychiatrist, I have seen firsthand the tragic consequences on young Canadians. We need to do more, and the Canadian Medical Association encourages a public health approach that includes a nationwide marijuana cessation campaign to ensure our youth are aware of the real risks and harms associated with marijuana usage."
Dr. Gail Beck
Member, Canadian Medical Association Board of Directors
"The Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse was pleased to participate in today's roundtable with Minister Ambrose and some of Canada's leading scientists and researchers to discuss the health risks that marijuana poses for young people. We will continue to work with Health Canada and other partners, and through our Health Promotion and Drug Prevention Strategy for Canada's Youth, to provide factual, coordinated and consistent information to help prevent marijuana use among Canadian youth."
Michel Perron
CEO of the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse
The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Health, participated in a roundtable discussion on the risks associated with the long term use of marijuana by youth. The Minister was joined by leading researchers in the field.
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Michael BolkeniusOffice of the Honourable Rona Ambrose
Federal Minister of Health
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