Our Conversations Webinar Series is an opportunity to link national experts in colorectal cancer and other related fields to you, right in the comfort of your own home. The programs are designed to empower you to play a leading role in your healthcare management.
Last month, we hosted a webinar on medical marijuana and colorectal cancer, which was part of our Into the Weeds series where we separated the myths from the facts regarding this hot topic.
Couldn’t make the webinar? Read the Top 5 Takeaways and watch the replay for the information you need to know.
- Marijuana in any form should not be used to treat cancer, as there is no evidence that marijuana cures cancer. People who claim to have been cured using marijuana, including oil, also had conventional treatment or had “curable” cancer to begin with. Natural does not mean safe and there is no guarantee that the ingredients are what is reported. Additionally, there is no evidence that medical marijuana prevents cancer.
- There are over 400 chemicals in marijuana and over 104 cannabinoids; cannabinoids are the active ingredients in marijuana. The two main cannabinoids are delta-9 THC, which is responsible for the psychoactive effects, and canabindiol or CBD, which is non-psychoactive.
- Evaluate if the side effects and adverse effects of medical marijuana outweigh the perceived benefits. Tell your doctor if you use marijuana as it could interfere with the way your body processes chemotherapy. If you choose to use medical marijuana for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, it is best to use it along with standard treatments.
- Marijuana in all forms is against federal law. Medical marijuana can’t be transported between states, as it is a federal offense and is considered drug trafficking. The U.S. government grows marijuana for research purposes but, because of federal law, getting research studies approved is difficult.
- Medical marijuana cannot be prescribed like regular prescriptions. The doctor must sign an attestation stating that its use may benefit the individual. Each state has different requirements and costs associated with get a medical marijuana card. More information can be found here.
Don’t forget, the Colon Cancer Alliance serves as a source of information about colon health. If you have additional questions about colon cancer screening or are in need of support, please contact our free Helpline at (877) 422-2030. We’re here to help.