Use for Medical Purposes
The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) oversees the state’s medical cannabis program. Conditions that qualify for obtaining medical cannabis authorization from a medical provider are listed
Last Updated - 09/02/2024
Health
Cannabis
Short-Term Effects of Cannabis Consumption
The short-term effects of cannabis use can be felt within seconds to minutes if you are smoking, vaporizing, or dabbing cannabis. These effects can last up to 24 hours. If you are eating or drinking
Health
Cannabis
Long-Term Health Impacts
New research studying the long-term health impacts of cannabis use continues to be published. In Colorado, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment must monitor the scientific data and
Health
Cannabis
Youth and Young Adults
Use of impairing substances, including cannabis, is of particular concern when it comes to adolescents and young adults due to the potential impact on brain development. The previously mentioned
Health
Cannabis
Pregnancy or Breastfeeding Impacts
It is recommended that cannabis use be discontinued during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Physical evidence shows that THC can pass through the placenta from the mother to the unborn child. THC
Health
Cannabis
Secondhand Smoke
Cannabis smoke contains many of the same cancer-causing chemicals as tobacco smoke. Burning any plant material releases toxic chemicals and fine particles that can go deep into the lungs. In addition
Basics
Liquor
What Is Alcohol and Why Is It Regulated?
Alcohol is produced naturally by the fermentation of yeast, sugars, and starches found in grains, fruits, and vegetables. An additional process of evaporation and condensation is used to create
Basics
Liquor
Understanding Alcohol Content
Alcohol content is measured by how much alcohol is in a given amount of an alcoholic beverage. Wine, beer, and cider are usually listed as alcohol by volume (ABV), and liquor (distilled spirits) is
Basics
Liquor
Health
Alcohol’s Effect on Individuals
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) BAC is the amount of alcohol that is present in the bloodstream. For example, having a BAC of 0.10 percent means there is about one drop of alcohol for every 1,000
Basics
Liquor
Health
Levels of Drinking
Drinking in moderation According to the “Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025,” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture, adults of legal drinking age can
Liquor
Health
Alcohol and the Brain
It is good to understand how alcohol affects the brain and its functions: Alcohol is a depressant. The more you drink, the more specific parts of the brain are affected. The cerebrum controls
Liquor
Health
Health Risks - Short and Long Term
Alcohol has immediate effects on health. Some of these are: Alcohol can cause dehydration. Consuming alcohol decreases the body’s production of the anti-diuretic hormone, resulting in the body