Heavy and long-term use of marijuana has the potential to cause lung cancer. CBDs (cannabinoids) are chemical compounds found within the cannabis sativa plant. Marijuana high-potency products (oils, edibles, concentrates) with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana that to provides the “high” on brain receptors to alter the mood and perception.
Vaping is not safer than smoking, just like jumping out of a frying pan to the fire. They are both very toxic. Those deceptive advertisements are disingenuous, promoted by greedy entrepreneurs with deep pockets.
While the legislation to allow the use of medical marijuana for chronic neuropathic (nerve-related) and other causes of pain is a welcome addition to the physician’s armamentarium, legalizing and promoting recreational marijuana is insanity and a danger to society. Alcohol and tobacco are responsible for 75 percent of all major illnesses we have today. Adding marijuana for recreation makes no sense. It is plain stupidity.
Marijuana is associated with physical, mental, and social dangers. Medically, it elevates the risk for strokes, heart attacks, and cardiac rhythm disturbances. Its use can permanently lead to loss of IQ, as much as 8 points, which does not come back after quitting marijuana. Its frequent use could also lead to erectile dysfunction and low sperm count.
More than 40 percent of drivers who died in car crashes tested positive for marijuana (THC). The death rates among marijuana users are 3 times higher than those of non-users, and suicides are also more prevalent among them.
So, why have the majority of our legislators voted in favor of recreational marijuana?
Lung cancer stats
Cancer of the lungs is the commonest cause of cancer deaths (among all other cancers) in the United States, the Philippines, and other nations around the world. In the USA, out of the 226,650 cases of lung cancer, 4,730 died in 2025, 87 percent were non-small cell malignancies. Globally, it accounts for about 1.8 million deaths yearly, making lung cancer the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. By the time it is diagnosed, 60 percent of lung cancers are already in their advanced stage, surgery is no longer feasible, and the 5-year survival rate is lower than 10 percent.
Ninety percent of lung cancers are caused by tobacco exposure, not only among smokers but also among people around them, from secondhand smoke. Worldwide, there are still more than 20 percent of adults who smoke. Other contributing factors are asbestos, radon, and environmental air pollution.
Supercentenarians
The nations with the highest number of supercentenarians are Japan (99,763 aged 100 or older, England/Wales (about 16,000), Italy (110), the United States (about 60), and France (39)
Three of the supercentenarians in the world live in Brazil. Three others are in the Philippines (Genoveva, “Lola Bebang,” Garcia, who turned 110 last January 3, 2026) and Lauro Bilaos, 109, Anna Wilmot, 110, and Francisca Susano, who died in 2021, cited, but unverified, to be 124.
Researchers believe “distinct genetic and immunological factors may be driving this effect… relatively rare gene variants that support a robust immune system, genomic stability, and mitochondrial function.”
Protein maintenance, protection of the immune system and gut microbiome, avoidance of inflammatory foods and unhealthy habits and behaviors, all promote health and longevity.
8 pillars of lifestyle
1. Diet – basically plant-based: vegetables, legumes, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and seeds — minimizing meat, processed foods, and salt. Be well-hydrated with fresh, filtered water.
2. Physical activity – walking, Tai Chi, Tai Bo, balancing activity, light weight-bearing exercise
3. Sleep – 8 hours of quality sleep; caution with sleep aid
4. Stress Management – be positive, try to relax, take vacations, meditate, pray
5. Family – a loving and stable home life is the foundation of a happy life
6. Social Ties – have a ton of friends, go out, travel, and enjoy life
7. Avoid self-destruction – avoid tobacco and abstain from alcohol and illicit drugs
8. Have a purpose – strive to help others and make this world better.
Implantable microchips
In a perfect world, universal implantation of this radio frequency device on everybody (data and info adjusted for each age or professional group, personal, company or government needs, etc.) and used only for legitimate, legal and noble purpose, this micro-chip could make life better for all of us, provide better security (tracing) and peace of mind for us and our loved ones, and even save lives, and tremendously benefit mankind as a whole. However, this is not a perfect world. That’s why there are concerns and fears. But just like any offspring of the advances in science and technology, the actual and potential benefits of the RFID and its more sophisticated models will someday make the implantable micro-chip a common “household” item. Who knows? Perhaps fashion might even jump in and create a “designer series” of microchips.
Text messaging
Anything in excess, even water, oxygen, food, talking, rest, etc., is bad for us. Wise and appropriate use of cellphones and their nice features, like text messaging in moderation, does not pose any health hazard to the user. Cell phones and text-messaging are technological wonders of our times, which, when utilized properly, provide great convenience, advantage, and security for the users and their family and friends. Exceptions to this is the use of a cellphone while driving or doing activities that require full attention. Accidental deaths (while driving or even while walking and texting) have been widely reported. While on a night out, 100% attention on your date is a must. In this situation, the repeated use of a cell phone for calls, or frequent text-messaging, could be hazardous not only to the user’s physical health but to the relationship. Besides, this unwelcome practice is rude and anti-social, vehemently frowned upon in polite society.
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The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the Asian Journal, its management, editorial board and staff.
Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical lecturer/author, Health Advocate, medical missionary, newspaper columnist, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation in the United States. He is a decorated recipient of the Indiana Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1995, presented by then Indiana Governor, US senator, and later a presidential candidate, Evan Bayh. Other Sagamore past awardees include President Harry S. Truman, President George HW Bush, Astronaut Gus Grissom, pugilist Muhammad Ali, distinguished educators, renowned scientists, etc. (Wikipedia). Websites: FUN8888.com, Today.SPSAtoday.com, and philipSchua.com. On Amazon.com, search for “Where is My America?” Email: scalpelpen@gmail.com
