Longtime Straight Talk readers may remember that just a few years ago, medical marijuana was a big topic. Louisiana Blue Healthcare Economist Mike Bertaut gave us the Straight Talk on the latest state and federal developments regulating when medical marijuana is permitted, went over some of the pros and cons, and described many of the unknowns (and there were plenty!) that must be factored into making something like cannabis use covered by your health insurance.

Recently, Mike noticed some big-time research houses are doing more intense research on long-term cannabis use for medical OR recreational reasons, and they’ve begun to quantify the risks. In this new Straight Talk, Mike looks at their findings and recommendations.