The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be more than 1.5 million new cancer cases diagnosed in 2019. When it comes to cannabis and cancer, most people are aware that medical marijuana is a powerful option for coping with cancer treatment symptoms. A Florida cannabis doctor can help you find the best option for your situation and symptoms.
Some people also believe that cannabis has the potential to cure cancer. Is there evidence to support this belief? What impact does cannabis have on cancer? Here is a closer look at the research and how to approach cannabis and cancer treatment.
What is Cancer?
Understanding cancer and how it impacts the body is the first step in evaluating potential treatment options, including cannabis. Cancer is a term for a collection of related diseases, according to the National Cancer Institute. Cancer can start anywhere in the body, and results from abnormal cell growth. Many cancers form tumors, or solid masses, whereas other cancers are like fluid such as blood cancers. Cancerous tumors may be malignant, which means that they grow in a dangerous fashion and may invade (or metastasize) to other parts of the body.
What the Research Says About Cannabis and Cancer
When it comes to cannabis and cancer, there are a few essential facts to keep in mind:
- There is no truly conclusive evidence to prove cannabis can cure cancer.
- There are many types of cancer, so no one treatment will work the same way for every type of cancer.
- Everyone has a different genetic composition, which will also impact cancer treatment options and effectiveness.
Although there is no conclusive evidence for cannabis curing cancer in humans, in terms of long-term, peer-reviewed studies, there is promising pre-clinical research and anecdotal reports.
The most promising research indicates that cannabis may impact tumor growth. For example, a two-year study of mice and rats showed a decrease in tumor size in two types of tumors. There was also a decreased incidence of benign tumors. Other research shows that cannabinoids (the chemical compounds in cannabis) may kill tumor cells without hurting healthy cells. Other basic research studies reveal evidence that cannabis may reduce tumor metastasis and reduce tumor angiogenesis (reducing the blood flow and starving the tumor).
There is also some initial evidence that CBD may help conventional treatments work more effectively. Ultimately, significantly more research needs to be conducted to determine if cannabis is an effective cure for cancer. In the meantime, cannabis does help make the side effects of cancer treatment more tolerable. It can help alleviate pain, increase appetite, improve sleep, relieve nausea, and improve your quality of life.
Exploring Your Treatment Options
Making the right decision regarding your cancer treatment should not be taken lightly. The first step to deciding whether medical cannabis is right for you is to consult an experienced Florida cannabis doctor. Look for a practice that has an experienced doctor who spends quality time with each patient, such as Dr. Daniel P. Stein at Neurology of Cannabis.
To get the best recommendations possible, compile your medical records and a list of your current medications. Take the information to your appointment. It may also help to prepare a list of questions before you go. Some potential questions to ask include:
- How can cannabis help my cancer treatment symptoms?
- If I want to try and reduce tumor size, what dose of cannabis should I use?
- What are the best delivery methods for my needs?
- What side effects should I be aware of, if any?
- How do I talk to my other doctors about my cannabis use?
- How do I contact you if I have questions?
Everybody is different, and everyone will have a different response to cancer treatment and to incorporating cannabis into his or her regimen. A high-quality practice will provide tailored recommendations that address your cancer treatment, any other medical conditions you have, and your personal preferences.
Information You Can Trust
You deserve the best quality of life possible. Dr. Stein at Neurology of Cannabis has 25 years of practice experience and a background in neurology, making him uniquely qualified to provide medical cannabis recommendations to those with cancer. His practice is warm and professional. We know how expensive medical bills can be, so we offer a simple, predictable pricing model. One annual payment of $250 provides you with your initial assessment, assistance in joining the medical marijuana registry, professional recommendations, and the 6-month state-required renewal.
We invite you to learn more about how medical cannabis can improve your quality of life. Contact us today for an appointment. We are here to help.
