A federal government agency has released a series of scientific reports examining the relationship between cancer patients and cannabis, aiming to address key questions about sourcing, costs, behavioral patterns, and patient-provider communication regarding cannabis use. Featured in a special issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute’s JNCI Monographs, the package includes 14 articles that detail findings from federally funded surveys conducted across multiple cancer centers in states with varying cannabis laws.
One study highlights that cancer patients are increasingly using medical marijuana as an alternative to opioids for managing cancer-related pain. The survey, conducted from September 2021 to August 2022, revealed that 32.9% of patients reported using cannabis, primarily for symptoms such as pain, sleep issues, and mood changes. Notably, patients’ reported usage was consistent regardless of state legality: 34.3% in legal states, 31.5% in medical-only states, and 24.7% in illegal states.
Additionally, the reports indicate that many healthcare professionals are uncertain about cannabis use, with only 39% feeling comfortable providing guidance to patients, while just 13% considered themselves knowledgeable on the subject. Among patients, the most common forms of consumption were gummies (33%) and smoking (30%), with insomnia (46%) and pain (41%) cited as the primary reasons for use.
Another analysis found that approximately 43.4% of participants reported using cannabis instead of opioids for pain management, citing safety and fewer side effects as major reasons. Demographic variations were noted, with Black patients less likely to use opioids and more likely to consider cannabis as a more effective option.
The authors concluded that cannabis use among cancer patients is prevalent across various legal contexts and that the perceived benefits often outweigh the risks. They emphasized the need for healthcare providers to enhance their understanding of cannabis to better assist patients navigating its use during treatment.
The comprehensive reports are part of a broader movement towards recognizing the therapeutic potential of cannabis for cancer patients, alongside ongoing research into its effects on cancer itself. Recent studies have indicated promising anticancer properties of lesser-known cannabinoids, prompting increased interest in the therapeutic applications of cannabis.
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