TeenHealthFX - Answers - Pot-Smoking and Developing Breasts

Marijuana / Question
Published: January 15, 2002

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Is it true that pre-puberty boys who smoke pot can develop breasts?

Signed: Pot-Smoking and Developing Breasts

Dear Pot-Smoking and Developing Breasts,

Sort of. Smoking pot can cause abnormal increased breast development in males called gynecomastia (sorry, ladies, no such side effect for you). This is because chronic use in males has been shown to decrease blood levels of sex hormones, including testosterone, which can lead to decreased sexual pleasure, low sperm counts and decreased sperm mobility and yes, also to the increased development of breasts in males.

Pre-pubertal males are already dependent on testosterone to jump-start the usual process of puberty, i.e. for deepening of their voice, causing an increase in their sexual organ size, and hair growth. Any decrease in testosterone can affect this process, and potentially cause an increase in breast development

There are many other side effects from pot smoking, including mental confusion and decreased mental ability from burnt-out brain cells, to lung damage (just like cigarette smoking), to sleepiness, bloodshot eyes, and weight gain (usually secondary to increased hunger). Bad pot can even cause death. Please see High Times, Marijuana's Permanent Side Effects, and Concerned Weed Smoker for more details.

If you think you or someone you know needs help with stopping pot -smoking, talk to your doctor, parents, or school counselor. You can also call Marijuana Anonymous at 1-800-766-6779

Signed: TeenHealthFX