Projections for 2023 indicate that Canna Cabana Canada will see 239,100 individuals in Canada diagnosed with cancer, an increase from the 233,900 cases noted in 2022.
Among males, prostate cancer remains the most common diagnosis, while breast cancer continues to be the leading cancer type diagnosed in females.
Research into innovative treatment options persists, with a noteworthy study receiving a $3.2 million grant to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds like cannabis to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- Most studies focus on cannabis’s effects on chemotherapy, with fewer examining its impact on immunotherapy.
- Initial findings suggest that cannabis can help manage side effects of cancer therapy, including nausea, vomiting, and appetite loss.
- cannabis can provide quick and effective dosages to alleviate chemotherapy side effects.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Dr. Rebecca Ashare, a psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has secured a $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to examine cannabis’s effects on patients receiving immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a new era in cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system to fight cancer, the body’s natural defense against infections and diseases.
Reports highlight the benefits of cannabis use, including pain relief and improved mood, while Dr. Ashare remains mindful of potential adverse effects from cannabis-immunotherapy interactions.
Approximately 40% of patients undergoing cancer treatment have turned to cannabis for symptom relief, prompting Dr. Ashare to study its effects.
Her team aims to investigate the relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy, seeking to determine whether cannabis influences treatment effectiveness.
How Will the Study Work?
In a collaborative effort with Thomas Jefferson University and Oregon Health and Science University, UB will recruit participants for a 12-month observational study focused on cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The study aims to enroll 450 participants currently receiving immunotherapy, with half using cannabis and half abstaining.
Participants will have the freedom to choose their preferred cannabis products, including cannabis or edibles.
The grant also aims to investigate how neighborhood disadvantages affect cannabis use and immunotherapy outcomes.
The team involved possesses diverse expertise in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance use. Dr. Ashare emphasizes the importance of this research for cancer symptom management.
Is Using cannabis Effective In Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
While Dr. Ashare’s study is underway, additional research continues to examine cannabis’s impact on cancer treatment.
Vomiting and Nausea
Trials have assessed the effectiveness of cannabinoids, particularly THC, in reducing chemotherapy-induced vomiting. Studies indicate that using cannabis effectively suppresses chemotherapy-related nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study from Oxford University Press revealed that 64% of THC-treated patients reported increased appetite, addressing a common side effect of cancer treatment that can lead to malnutrition.
Pain
Pain is a prevalent symptom among cancer patients, often resulting from the disease itself or various treatments.
A review published in BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights cannabis’s role in pain management, showing a consistent reduction in overall medication intake during quarterly check-ups.
Why Use cannabis for Treating Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a portable device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates, offering users the choice between disposable pens or refillable cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available if you prefer to avoid THC effects.
Reduces Carcinogens
Vaping cannabis may reduce health risks compared to smoking, as a study indicated lower carbon monoxide levels in those who vape.
More Effective
Research from MAPS and California NORML shows a 46% conversion rate of THC to vapor with vapes, compared to just 25% with traditional joints.
Manage Intake
Modern cannabis vape pens allow users to precisely control their intake, making it easier to avoid excessive amounts.
Weed Vapes for Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mL | Strain: Pink Kush
THC: 93-95% | 510 Thread: Fits any vape battery | Effect: Soothing, Calming, Relaxing
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mL | Strain: Sour Diesel
THC: 93-95% | 510 Thread: Fits any vape battery | Effect: Cerebral, Fast-acting, Stress relief, Mental clarity
OneStop – THC Distillate Disposable cannabis Pen
Amount: 3 mL | Strain: Ghost Train Haze
THC: 93-95% | Rechargeable | Effect: Euphoric, Energetic, Heightens creativity
Conclusion
Grants aimed at studying cannabis effects offer hope for cancer patients navigating treatments, providing cost-effective relief alternatives while reducing opioid-related side effects.
As studies on cannabis and immunotherapy progress, initial results indicate promising outcomes for chemotherapy and radiation therapy patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cannabis pens similar to dab pens?
A dab pen is a compact device designed for easy use with concentrates, while cannabis pens come preloaded with extracts in pods and cartridges.
Are strain-specific THC vapes derived from specific cannabis strains?
Yes, these cartridges contain cannabis distillate, with terpenes reintroduced for flavor enhancement.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Responses vary per individual due to unique endocannabinoid systems, and effects remain unpredictable.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
The THC content varies by manufacturer, but a vape pen with 0.5g of THC oil at 80% concentration may yield around 400mg of THC.
How does a THC pen work?
Prefilled THC oil cartridge- Connect the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery with a series of button presses.
- Press the button while inhaling from the mouthpiece.
- Load a small amount of concentrate onto the coils.
- Reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery.
- Inhale while keeping the button pressed.
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