Projections for 2023 indicate that 239,100 individuals in Canada are expected to receive the daunting cancer diagnosis, a slight increase from the 233,900 cases reported in 2022. Chronic Paradise Canada
Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer diagnosis among males, while breast cancer is still the leading cancer type for females.
Although cancer has been a persistent challenge, researchers are continually seeking innovative methods to improve patient care. A recent research project was awarded a significant grant of $3.2 million to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, such as those found in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- Most studies investigate cannabis’s influence on chemotherapy, with less focus on its effects on immunotherapy.
- Initial findings suggest that cannabis can alleviate side effects of cancer therapy, including nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- cannabis can provide quick and effective dosages to manage chemotherapy side effects.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Dr. Rebecca Ashare, a respected psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has recently received a noteworthy $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This funding will support her research into the effects of cannabis on patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a new frontier in cancer treatment by harnessing the immune system’s power to fight cancer. This complex defense mechanism is the body’s primary safeguard against infections and diseases.
Numerous studies highlight the potential benefits of cannabis use, including pain relief, mood enhancement, and addressing sleep issues. However, Dr. Ashare remains cautious, acknowledging the documented risks associated with the interaction between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of cancer patients undergoing treatment have turned to cannabis for symptom relief during and after their medical procedures. Given the limited research on its effects, Dr. Ashare aims to investigate how cannabis aids these patients.
She and her team plan to explore the intricate dynamics between cannabis and immunotherapy. Their main goal is to determine whether cannabis influences the treatment’s effectiveness, either positively or negatively.
How Will the Study Work?
Thomas Jefferson University and Oregon Health and Science University are collaborating with UB to recruit participants for a 12-month observational study. This study aims to enhance understanding of the long-term benefits and risks associated with cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The recruitment efforts at each site will focus on 450 participants currently receiving immunotherapy for cancer treatment. To gain a well-rounded 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 cannabis or edibles.
The secondary aim of the grant is to examine the impact of neighborhood disadvantages on outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The team leading this initiative brings together diverse expertise in managing cancer symptoms, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance use. Dr. Ashare emphasizes the importance of this research, as it may significantly influence cancer symptom management.
Is Using cannabis Effective In Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
While Dr. Ashare and her team are embarking on a new study regarding cannabis use and immunotherapy, additional research is also focused on cannabis’s impact on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have conducted trials assessing the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly THC. This compound, along with other synthetic cannabinoids, has shown modest efficacy in preventing vomiting caused by cancer chemotherapy. Clinical studies suggest that using cannabis can significantly suppress chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study published in the Oxford University Press found that a considerable number of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced increased appetite. A small percentage of THC-treated patients reported no change (27%), while data for one patient were incomplete. Appetite loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment, leading to weight loss and malnutrition, but THC may help improve intake.
Pain
Pain is a prevalent symptom among individuals dealing with cancer, arising from the disease, treatments, or other factors.
A comprehensive review 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 during quarterly check-ups, including a reduction in opioid use over the first three sessions.
Why Use cannabis for Treating Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a compact and efficient battery-powered device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates, popular in today’s cannabis market. Comprising a battery, a precise heating element, and a cartridge to hold the cannabis concentrates, cannabis offers versatile consumption options. Users can choose between disposable vape pens or refillable cartridges with their preferred cannabis oil.
Note: CBD vape pens are also available in the market for those who wish to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC.
Reduces Carcinogens
Inhaling cannabis through vaping may reduce health risks associated with exposure to carcinogens, according to a 2007 study comparing individuals who smoked cannabis with those who vaped. The research indicated a significant reduction in carbon monoxide levels in the blood among those who opted for vaping.
More Effective
A comprehensive examination by MAPS and California NORML revealed a remarkable 46% conversion rate of THC to vapor when using a vape, surpassing the 25% achieved with a traditional cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the amount of each inhale can be challenging with a joint, bong, or bowl. For inexperienced users, excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, with adjustable settings, allows users to finely control the dosage per inhalation.
Weed Vapes for Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mLStrain: Pink KushTHC: 93-95%510 Thread: Fits any vape batteryEffect: Soothing, Calming, Relaxing
Sol – THC Distillate Vape Cartridge
Amount: 1 mLStrain: Sour DieselTHC: 93-95%510 Thread: Fits any vape batteryEffect: Cerebral, Fast-acting, Stress relief, Mental clarity
OneStop – THC Distillate Disposable Cannabis Pen
Amount: 3 mLStrain: Ghost Train HazeTHC: 93-95%RechargeableEffect: Euphoric, Energetic, Heightens creativity
Conclusion
Grants focused on researching cannabis effects open new avenues of hope for cancer patients facing various medical treatments. It allows individuals to find cost-effective relief options while minimizing adverse effects associated with opioids or alternative medications.
As ongoing studies continue to explore cannabis’s impact on immunotherapy, early findings suggest promising outcomes for those undergoing 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 ease of use, allowing users to load their preferred concentrates.
Cannabis pens, on the other hand, come preloaded with cannabis vape extracts in pods and cartridges. Essentially, when people refer to dab pens, they mean vaporizers adaptable to various cannabis extract consistencies, while cannabis pens are specifically for vaporizing liquid extracts.
Are strain-specific THC vapes derived from specific cannabis strains?
Yes. Vape cartridges contain cannabis distillate, a potent 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 cartridges, manufacturers reintroduce terpenes to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses to cannabis can vary greatly due to the unique nature of each person’s 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?
Providing a definitive answer about the exact amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen is challenging. Different manufacturers incorporate varying amounts of THC in their products. For example, a vape pen containing 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration would yield around 400mg of THC, with each puff delivering approximately 4mg of THC.
How does a THC pen work?
Prefilled THC oil cartridge
- Start by connecting the cartridge to the battery.
- Activate the battery with a quick series of 3 or 5 button presses.
- An LED light will indicate the operational status, allowing you to press the button each time you draw from the mouthpiece.
THC concentrates pens
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber, and carefully place a small amount of concentrate directly onto the coils.
- After placing the concentrate, reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery with five consecutive button presses.
- Keep the button engaged while inhaling, and for the best experience, release the button midway through the inhalation process.
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