Predictions for 2023 indicated that 239,100 people in Canada would face the challenging diagnosis of cancer, marking a slight rise from the 233,900 cases recorded in 2022.
Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosis among men, while breast cancer retains its position as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women.
Even though cancer has been a longstanding issue, researchers continue to seek new ways to improve patient treatments. A significant research project was awarded a $3.2 million grant to explore the potential of cannabis-derived substances, such as those found in a weed, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- Most research studies focus on the effects of cannabis on chemotherapy, with limited exploration of its impact on immunotherapy.
- Initial research suggests that cannabis can help manage side effects of cancer therapy, like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- weed can provide quick and accurate dosages for managing chemotherapy side effects.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a respected psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, recently obtained a $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to investigate the effects of cannabis on patients receiving immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy is a groundbreaking cancer treatment that harnesses the immune system’s power to fight cancer. This complex defense mechanism is the body’s primary shield against infections and diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis use, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and addressing sleep issues. Dr. Ashare, however, remains aware of the validated signs indicating possible negative effects from the interaction between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of individuals undergoing cancer treatment have turned to cannabis for symptom relief during and after their medical procedures. Given the limited studies on its effects, Dr. Ashare aims to understand its benefits for patients.
Dr. Ashare and her team are eager to investigate the complex relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy in patients. Their primary goal is to determine whether cannabis can positively influence treatment effectiveness or potentially hinder it.
How Will the Study Work?
Thomas Jefferson University and Oregon Health and Science University are collaborating with UB on a 12-month observational study aimed at enhancing our understanding of the long-term benefits and potential risks of cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The recruitment process at each site will aim for 450 participants currently receiving immunotherapy for cancer treatment. To achieve a balanced perspective, half of the participants will be cannabis users, while the other half will abstain from cannabis.
Unlike traditional randomized studies, participants will have the freedom to choose their cannabis products, whether they prefer weed or edibles.
The secondary aim of the grant is to examine the influence of neighborhood disadvantages on outcomes associated with cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The research team brings together diverse expertise in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance misuse. Dr. Ashare emphasizes the importance of this research, as it has the potential to affect cancer symptom management.
Is Using weed Effective in Managing Cancer?
While Dr. Ashare and her team are initiating a new study on cannabis use and immunotherapy, additional research is also being conducted on the effects of cannabis on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have conducted trials to assess the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly focusing on THC. THC and other synthetic cannabinoids have shown moderate effectiveness in preventing vomiting induced by cancer chemotherapy. Clinical studies indicate that smoking or using weed has a significant effect on suppressing chemotherapy-induced vomiting.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press found that a substantial number of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A minority of THC-treated patients reported no change (27%), and data for one patient were incomplete. Appetite loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment, which can lead to weight loss and malnutrition; however, THC may help patients increase their intake.
Pain
Pain is a frequent symptom experienced by individuals dealing with cancer. This discomfort may stem from cancer itself, various treatments, or other contributing factors.
An extensive analysis featured in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights the effectiveness of cannabis in assisting patients with pain management. The research indicates a consistent decrease in overall medication intake among patients during each quarterly check-up, along with a decline in opioid consumption during the initial three check-up sessions.
Why Use weed for Treating Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a compact and efficient battery-powered device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates that are popular in the cannabis market today. It consists of a battery, a heating element, and a cartridge or chamber to contain the cannabis concentrates. weed offers versatile consumption options, allowing users to choose between disposable vape pens or filling their own cartridges with preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available for those who do not wish to experience the effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Vaping cannabis may reduce health risks associated with carcinogen exposure, as shown by a 2007 study comparing individuals who smoke cannabis with those who vape. The research revealed a significant reduction in blood levels of carbon monoxide among those who chose vaping.
More Effective
A comprehensive examination by MAPS and California NORML demonstrated a remarkable 46% conversion of THC to vapor when using a vape, compared to only 25% achieved by a standard cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the amount of each inhale can be challenging with a joint, bong, or bowl. For those inexperienced with smoking, an excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, with its adjustable settings, enables users to precisely control the amount inhaled.
Cannabis 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 dedicated to researching the effects of cannabis provide hope for cancer patients undergoing various medical treatments. They offer patients a cost-effective relief option while reducing the adverse effects associated with opioids or alternative medications.
As studies continue to explore cannabis’ impact on immunotherapy, early results already show promising outcomes for those receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cannabis pens similar to dab pens?
A dab pen, or wax pen, is a compact electronic device designed for a hassle-free experience. It allows users to load their preferred concentrates easily.
Cannabis pens come with preloaded cannabis extracts in pods and cartridges. Essentially, when people refer to dab pens, they mean vaporizers compatible with various cannabis extract consistencies, while cannabis pens are specifically designed for vaporizing liquid extracts.
Are strain-specific THC vapes derived from specific cannabis strains?
Yes. Vape cartridges contain cannabis distillate, a concentrated form of cannabis oil. During the distillation process, manufacturers extract natural plant terpenes from the cannabis, resulting in a dense and nearly flavorless liquid. Before filling the cartridges, manufacturers reintroduce terpenes to enhance the liquid’s overall flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses can vary based on each person’s unique endocannabinoid system. The effects experienced are not universally predictable, and there is still much to learn about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes affect individual responses.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
It is difficult to provide a definitive answer regarding the exact amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen. Different manufacturers use varying THC concentrations in their products. For example, a vape pen containing 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration would yield approximately 400mg of THC, with each puff delivering around 4mg of THC.
How does a THC pen work?
Prefilled THC oil cartridge- Connect the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery by pressing the button quickly three to five times.
- An LED light will indicate the operational status; press the button whenever you draw from the mouthpiece.
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber and gently place a small portion of concentrate onto the coils.
- After placing the concentrate, reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery by pressing the button five times.
- Keep the button pressed while inhaling, and for an optimal experience, release the button midway through the inhalation.
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