WHO - World Health Organisation
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is a specialised branch of the United Nations that is directly responsible for global public health initiatives, guidelines, and research. It was founded on April 7th, 1948, with headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Along with setting out global health standards, conducting research, and providing guidance on health-related issues for all countries, the WHO also plays a crucial role in preventing and responding to global pandemics.
Has the WHO made any recommendations about medical cannabis?
Yes, and these recommendations had a direct influence over the UK's government shift of stance regarding the medical potential and administration of cannabis in 2018. The WHO released a series of reports over 2017/2018 regarding the therapeutic potential of cannabis and its derivatives, highlighting their effectiveness in treating various medical conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.
In 2018, the WHO Expert Committee on Drug Dependence (ECDD) specifically recommended that cannabis and its components, such as CBD (cannabidiol), should not be internationally classified as a controlled substance, and called for governments to reconsider the classification of THC so that it could be considered for medical use.
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.