Alleviating Breast Cancer Symptoms in the Spotlight
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that every year, 240,000 women and 2,100 men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Tragically, the disease claims the lives of 42,000 women and 500 men annually. While age, genetics, and family history play roles in the likelihood of diagnosis, treatments range from surgery to hormonal therapy, depending on the cancer’s stage and type.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month commences, it’s vital to note that many patients have turned to cannabis to alleviate symptoms. Though cannabis isn’t a direct cure, it has been shown to help manage treatment side effects. A Breastcancer.org survey indicated that 42% of breast cancer patients utilized medical cannabis for symptom relief, with 75% finding it notably beneficial.
To further assist breast cancer patients, numerous organizations have been set up. A wave of cannabis businesses is now collaborating with these entities, both to support patients and drive research. For instance, Mint Cannabis in Arizona recently teamed up with Check for a Lump to provide free mammograms, a crucial move during a pandemic that saw thousands miss their cancer screenings.
Clovr Cannabis in Missouri launched a “Bonbons for Boobies” initiative, offering special pink raspberry caramel chocolates to raise funds for breast cancer patients. Similarly, the expansive Verano group is pushing its annual breast cancer campaign, targeting funds for the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation.
Tilt Holdings, another significant player, is collaborating with the PA Breast Cancer Coalition. Their subsidiary, Standard Farms, has pledged donations for every sale of a specific product. Florida’s Sunmed, a CBD company, has joined forces with the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. (NBCF), committing a percentage of their October sales to the cause.
Breastcancer.org’s founder, Marisa C. Weiss, emphasized the significant relief cannabis provides to patients enduring treatments like surgery and chemotherapy. She highlighted a recent study that showed a majority of breast cancer patients used cannabis but felt apprehensive about discussing it with their physicians.
Recent research has only amplified the importance of cannabis in breast cancer treatments. On September 27, the UF Health Center and University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center procured a $3.2 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) to explore the benefits and risks of medical cannabis. This study aims to shed light on the potential advantages and disadvantages of medical cannabis, particularly its effects during and post-cancer treatments.
In conclusion, as the medical world continues to delve into the potential benefits of cannabis for breast cancer patients, the importance of research and understanding cannot be stressed enough. As the fight against breast cancer persists, the role of cannabis in providing relief remains a beacon of hope for many.
