Is Access to Cannabis Equitable For Cancer Patients? New Study Finds Otherwise

Cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Patients undergoing cancer treatment often experience pain, anxiety, and sleep disruption, leading many to seek alternative methods of symptom management. One such option gaining popularity is medical cannabis, which has shown promise in alleviating cancer-related symptoms. However, a recent study led by a University at Buffalo researcher highlights disparities in access to cannabis for cancer patients, bringing to light issues related to race, income, and systemic factors.

The study, funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), aimed to explore who has access to cannabis and what barriers might limit that access. The researchers found that race and income play significant roles in determining which cancer patients have access to cannabis, where they obtain it from, and in what form. These findings shed light on the broader issue of health care disparities in the United States, driven by factors like racism and income inequality.

Cannabis use for medical purposes is legal in 38 states and the District of Columbia, with Pennsylvania being one of them. The researchers conducted an anonymous survey of cancer patients at a large NCI designated cancer center in Pennsylvania over five months in 2021. Although nearly 43% of the participants received medical certification for cannabis, the study found that patients who identified as Black/African American were significantly less likely to be certified compared to white participants. Furthermore, these patients were more likely to report using cannabis in forms associated with adverse health outcomes, such as smoking or vaporizing.

The study's lead author, Rebecca Ashare, emphasizes that the findings go beyond personal choices and highlight systemic factors at play. Structural racism and a lack of trust in the healthcare system may contribute to hesitancy among Black/African American patients to participate in state-wide registries for medical cannabis certification. As a result, they might turn to unlicensed sellers for cannabis, potentially accessing products with higher health risks.

Income also played a significant role in access to cannabis. Lower-income patients were more likely to rely on unlicensed sources for cannabis, again increasing the risk of using harmful products due to the lack of regulation or monitoring. The study's findings underscore the importance of addressing systemic factors that contribute to health care disparities and hinder equitable access to cannabis for managing cancer-related symptoms.

The research on the benefits and risks of cannabis use is still catching up with its increasing popularity. Understanding the potential benefits and harms of cannabis is crucial for ensuring that cancer patients can access safe and effective options for symptom management. The researchers stress the need for further studies to better understand how patients are using cannabis and to develop evidence-based guidelines for its medical use.

The study's focus on one state raises concerns that the findings may reflect a broader pattern of disparities in cannabis access across the country. Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach. This includes education, policy changes, and efforts to combat structural racism and income inequality in healthcare.

In conclusion, the study sheds light on the disparities in access to cannabis for cancer patients. It highlights the role of race and income in determining who has access to medical cannabis and underscores the need to address systemic factors that contribute to health care disparities. As more states legalize medical cannabis, it is essential to ensure that all cancer patients, regardless of their race or income, have equitable access to safe and effective symptom management options. By addressing these issues, we can take steps towards providing better care and support for cancer patients on their challenging journey.