Q: For many years, the public has been warned about the health hazards of secondhand tobacco smoke, but what about marijuana smoke? We never hear about the effect of marijuana smoke on non-smokers. Has any research been done?
—Roger Van Cleve, Honolulu
A: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and other organizations have stated that more studies are needed to determine the effects of secondhand marijuana smoke. Colorado legalized marijuana in 2012. It warns that secondhand marijuana smoke might "increase the risk of lung cancer" … "cause lung irritation, asthma attacks and make respiratory infections more likely."
Studies conducted in the past 30 years have shown that secondhand marijuana smoke likely would not lead to a failed drug test. A study published in the May 2010 edition of the Journal of Analytical Toxicology found only “very small” amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in the blood and urine samples of eight subjects who were subjected to three hours of cannabis smoke at a “well-attended coffee shop” in the Netherlands. The legal team for Josh Gordon, a receiver with the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, has stated that secondhand marijuana smoke was responsible for his failed drug test, which resulted in a suspension this season.
Q: Is Ted Cruz an only child?
—Eldredge Holland, Atlanta
A: Rafael Cruz, the father of Sen. Cruz (R-Texas), had two daughters from his first marriage, but one died. His son Ted is from his second marriage to Eleanor Darragh. Rafael Cruz is heavily involved in his son's political career.
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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