In recent years, there has been a growing paradox in public health policies around the world. On one hand, we witness an escalating global movement to ban and discourage tobacco use due to its severe health implications. On the other hand, an increasing number of jurisdictions are legalizing the recreational use of cannabis, often downplaying the potential risks associated with smoking this substance. This paradox raises critical questions about the coherence and consistency of our approach to public health. Have we inadvertently embraced a contradictory stance that compromises the well-being of our communities?

Governments worldwide have ardently campaigned against tobacco use, implementing strict regulations, and in some cases, outright bans on smoking in public spaces. The motive behind these measures is clear: the well-documented health risks posed by tobacco consumption. From lung cancer to cardiovascular diseases, the toll of smoking on public health is undeniable. The efforts to curb tobacco use are commendable and reflective of a commitment to safeguarding the health of citizens.

On the flip side, the movement toward the legalization of cannabis for recreational use has gained momentum, with various jurisdictions including Malta adopting more permissive policies. While advocates argue that cannabis is a less harmful alternative to tobacco, the act of smoking itself introduces health risks that cannot be ignored. The combustion of plant material releases carcinogens and other harmful compounds, contributing to respiratory issues and potential long-term health consequences.

The question beckons: how can we reconcile the fervent campaign against tobacco with the growing acceptance of smoked cannabis? Are we not, in essence, swapping one set of health risks for another? It seems paradoxical to discourage smoking on one hand while endorsing it on the other, albeit under a different guise.

It is crucial to shed light on the potential risks associated with smoking cannabis. Research suggests that regular use can impair lung function and may lead to chronic bronchitis. Furthermore, the psychoactive effects of cannabis can impair cognitive function, posing risks not only to individual users but also to public safety.

As we navigate the complex landscape of public health policies, it is imperative to address the glaring contradiction between the push to ban tobacco and the leniency toward cannabis. While the motivations behind each initiative may differ, the shared method of smoking poses inherent health risks that demand attention. It is time to reconsider the coherence of our approach and strive for policies that prioritize the well-being of the public, free from the inconsistency that currently characterizes our stance on smoking. In the pursuit of a healthier society, let us not inadvertently embrace policies that, when scrutinized, leave us wondering: have we gone bonkers?