Projections for 2023 indicate that Buy Weed Packs Canada anticipates approximately 239,100 individuals in Canada will be faced with the challenging diagnosis of cancer, marking a slight rise from the 233,900 cases reported in 2022.
Prostate cancer remains the leading cancer diagnosis among males, while breast cancer continues to be the most commonly identified cancer in females.
Even though cancer has been a long-standing issue, researchers are actively seeking new ways to improve treatment for patients. A research program has been awarded a significant grant of $3.2 million to explore the potential of cannabis-derived compounds, such as those in a cannabis, to enhance immunotherapy treatments.
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Key Takeaways:
- The majority of research studies focus on the effects of cannabis on chemotherapy, with limited exploration into its impact on immunotherapy.
- Initial findings suggest that cannabis may alleviate side effects of cancer therapy, such as nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- cannabis can provide quick and effective dosages to manage the effects of chemotherapy.
The Grant for Cancer Immunotherapy and Marijuana
Rebecca Ashare, PhD, a respected psychology professor at the University at Buffalo, has recently received a notable $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This funding will aid her research into the effects of cannabis on patients undergoing immunotherapy.
Immunotherapy represents a cutting-edge approach in cancer treatment, utilizing the body’s immune system to fight against cancer. This complex defense mechanism serves as the body’s primary protection against infections and diseases.
Numerous reports highlight the potential benefits of cannabis use, including relief from pain, mood improvement, and assistance with sleep issues. However, Dr. Ashare is mindful of the possible adverse effects that may arise from the interaction between cannabis and immunotherapy.
Approximately 40% of individuals undergoing cancer treatment have turned to cannabis for symptom relief, both during and after their medical procedures. Due to the limited studies on its effects, Dr. Ashare is keen to investigate how it can benefit patients.
She and her team aim to explore the complex relationship between cannabis and immunotherapy. Their main goal is to determine if cannabis might influence 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 deepen the understanding of the long-term benefits and risks associated with cannabis use among cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy.
The recruitment at each site will seek 450 participants currently undergoing immunotherapy for cancer treatment. To obtain 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 using cannabis or edibles.
The secondary aim of the grant is to investigate how neighborhood disadvantages affect outcomes related to cannabis use and immunotherapy.
The research team consists of experts in cancer symptom management, medical cannabis, health equity, oncology, immunology, and substance misuse. Dr. Ashare highlights the importance of this research, as it could significantly impact cancer symptom management.
Is Using cannabis Effective In Managing Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
As Dr. Ashare and her team embark on a new study regarding cannabis use and immunotherapy, additional research is also focusing on the influence of cannabis on cancer.
Vomiting and Nausea
Researchers have conducted studies to assess the effectiveness of various cannabinoids in reducing vomiting, particularly emphasizing THC. Studies have shown that THC and other synthetic cannabinoids effectively prevent vomiting triggered by cancer chemotherapy. Clinical research indicates that smoking or using cannabis has a significant effect on reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea.
Loss of Appetite
A study published by Oxford University Press revealed that a notable percentage of patients treated with THC (64%) experienced an increase in appetite. A smaller group 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, potentially leading to weight loss and malnutrition; however, THC can help improve patients’ intake.
Pain
Pain is a frequent symptom for those facing cancer. It may stem from the cancer itself, various treatments, or other contributing factors.
A comprehensive review published in the BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care Journal highlights cannabis’s effectiveness in aiding pain management for patients. The research shows a consistent decline in overall medication intake during quarterly check-ups, including reduced opioid use in the initial three sessions.
Why Use cannabis for Treating Cancer Treatment Symptoms?
A cannabis pen is a compact, battery-operated device designed for vaporizing cannabis oil or concentrates, widely popular in the cannabis market today. It consists of a battery, a precision heating element, and a cartridge or chamber for housing cannabis concentrates. cannabis provides 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 if you prefer to avoid the effects of THC cannabis extract.
Reduces Carcinogens
Inhaling cannabis through vaping may lower health risks associated with carcinogens. A 2007 study comparing individuals who smoked cannabis to those who vaped showed a significant reduction in blood carbon monoxide levels for those who chose vaping.
More Effective
A thorough examination by MAPS and California NORML revealed a remarkable 46% conversion of THC to vapor when using a vape, compared to just 25% from a conventional cannabis joint.
Manage Intake
Estimating the volume of each inhalation can be challenging when using a joint, bong, or bowl. For those inexperienced with smoking, excessive intake can be overwhelming. A modern cannabis vape pen, with adjustable settings, allows users to precisely regulate their inhalation volume.
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 dedicated to exploring the effects of cannabis provide hope for cancer patients navigating various medical treatments. These opportunities allow patients to find cost-effective relief while potentially reducing adverse effects associated with opioids or alternative medications.
While studies continue to investigate the impact of cannabis on immunotherapy, early results already show promising findings for individuals 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 user-friendly experiences. It allows for easy loading of preferred concentrates.
For cannabis pens, the cannabis vape extracts arrive conveniently preloaded in cartridges. In essence, dab pens refer to vaporizers adaptable to various cannabis extract consistencies, while cannabis pens are designed 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, resulting in a dense, nearly flavorless liquid. Before filling the cartridges, terpenes are reintroduced to enhance the flavor profile.
Will different pens make me feel different ways?
Individual responses vary due to the unique nature of each person’s endocannabinoid system. The effects experienced are not universally predictable, and much remains to be discovered about how specific cannabinoids and terpenes influence individual responses.
How many mg of THC is in a vape pen?
Determining the exact amount of THC in a cannabis vape pen can be challenging, as manufacturers utilize different concentrations. For instance, a vape pen containing 0.5g of THC oil at an 80% concentration may yield around 400mg of THC, with each puff delivering approximately 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 three or five times quickly.
- A reassuring LED light will indicate operational status, allowing you to press the button each time you draw from the mouthpiece.
- Remove the mouthpiece to access the chamber and carefully place a small portion of concentrate onto the coils.
- Reattach the mouthpiece and activate the battery with five consecutive button presses.
- Hold the button while inhaling, and for optimal results, release the button midway through inhalation.
