Marijuana is one of the most discussed and controversial topics in America today. Some say it has medical benefits and should be legalized. Some say the practice has a “high potential for abuse and addiction” and should not be allowed. Among the arguments, medical marijuana proponents have made a strong argument for legalization using research and evidence. Opponents of medical marijuana have given some reasons why it should not be legalized. One of the most controversial arguments is that "marijuana smoke contains known carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals) and is addictive in users." In some cases, it has been shown to have some harmful effects, such as lung damage associated with smoking, but the National Academy of Sciences has confirmed that "the short-term medical benefits of marijuana outweigh on the disadvantages linked to smoking for certain patients”. Although marijuana smoke has been proven to be harmful to the lungs, like tobacco, a 2006 study "found no evidence that marijuana users had higher rates of breast cancer." lung ". The Food and Drug Administration tested marijuana's usefulness as a medicine and found that marijuana's active chemicals, cannabinoids, are useful in "the treatment of pain associated with chemotherapy, postoperative recovery and spinal cord injuries, as well as neuropathic pain.” which is often experienced by patients with metastatic cancer, multiple sclerosis and diabetes. There is also no evidence or research showing that patients who use medical marijuana become addicted. Although the opposing party claims this to be a fact, they do not present any evidence to support this assertion, therefore rendering their assertion invalid. There are many prescription pharmacies......middle of paper......for recreational use. Additionally, “since 1996, voters in 13 states have passed initiatives exempting patients who use marijuana under the supervision of a physician from state criminal penalties.” American patients should have these rights in every state so that every patient can receive the same treatment and care. As citizens of the United States, seriously ill patients are born with rights and should not have those rights taken away. Many of the arguments made by the opposing side are completely irrelevant and can easily be proven false by the evidence provided. come to us from real sources. The DEA has let millions of sick people suffer miserably for decades because it refuses to provide them with the proper care they need. Research has already proven that it has medicinal value and it should no longer be withheld from these patients..