Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease that occurs when cells in the body mutate and begin to grow abnormally, sometimes uncontrollably. These abnormal cells often form a mass or tumour and can spread to other body parts. There are many types of cancer, each with its own characteristics and treatment options.
Can medical cannabis cure cancer?
No, medical cannabis is not a cure for cancer.
Right now, the jury is still out over whether cannabis-based treatments can help slow the progression of cancer. There have been some small-scale studies that have shown promising results, but more research and clinical trials are needed before any definitive conclusions can be made.
How can cannabis-based medical treatment options help cancer patients?
Medical cannabis has been shown to help manage some of the side-effects and symptoms associated with cancer treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, pain, and inflammation. It can also help improve appetite and sleep, which are often disrupted during cancer treatment.
Does the NHS offer medical cannabis prescriptions for cancer patients?
Yes, one of the few health issues that the NHS is currently willing to prescribe medical cannabis for is nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. However, the process of obtaining a prescription through the NHS is complicated and may require multiple consultations with specialists, and even then patients may be knocked back.
Private clinics like Releaf have the legal ability to offer a range of cannabis-based treatment options for cancer patients who are suffering from the side effects of cancer treatments, or for those who are suffering from pain, sleeplessness, anxiety, or appetite loss relating to their cancer.
To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.
If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.