Understanding Medicinal Cannabis in Cancer Care

Medicinal cannabis, a topic that remains largely unstudied in human trials in the United States, is slowly becoming introduced in areas of health care and oncology in states that have legalized it for medical and adult recreational use.

However, without a breadth of knowledge or research behind cannabis, healthcare professionals may be at a loss when patients ask about its medicinal use as part of their treatment protocols. Without the answers to rudimentary cannabis questions, many patients are forced to look elsewhere for information—which can often lead to misinformation, potential unwanted drug interactions, and more. As many as 25% of patients with cancer may be using cannabis in states where it’s legal; 60% of patients with cancer would like information regarding medicinal use of cannabis, yet only 15% received any information about cannabisfrom their doctor or nurse.