420 with CNW — Ohio Officials Post Adult-Use Cannabis License Application Forms as Market Launch Looms

Cannabis regulators in Ohio have released guidelines to help medical marijuana dispensaries prepare for the application process to obtain dual licenses. These licenses would allow them to serve both medical patients and recreational consumers. Applications are expected to open soon, and the Cannabis Control Department (DCC) has provided a FAQ and detailed instructions to assist potential applicants in starting the process.

The provided materials cover various aspects, such as eligibility requirements, the approval procedure, regulations for dual license holders and the necessary documentation for applications.

One question addresses the timeline for reviewing and issuing dual licenses following the submission of an application. The DCC notes that predicting the exact number of days is challenging because it depends on several factors. These include the completeness of the application, the completion of employee badging, adherence to surveillance standards and the fulfillment of inspection requirements, including standards for POS.

However, a faster turnaround time is anticipated for current medical cannabis license holders that have previously satisfied the dual-use license standards and have properly established their POS.

Applications will typically be reviewed in the order they are submitted and received, but the FAQ highlights that applications from testing laboratories, cultivators and processors will be given precedence to ensure an effective supply chain.

Dual licensees must also ensure they maintain sufficient stock of marijuana to meet the needs of medical patients and avoid shortages. The DCC advises each dispensary to determine the appropriate amount of supply for their operation.

Although Governor Mike DeWine does not support cannabis legalization, he has criticized the delay in access to regulated products since voters approved legalization, which made possession legal last December. There have been legislative discussions about creating a bill to expedite sales and make various changes to the law, but these plans have stalled due to disagreements within the Republican-controlled legislature.

While the Senate passed an amendment package before legalization took effect, the House has not acted on it, nor has it moved forward with a different proposal originating in the House. Senators have also recently introduced a separate bill to modify various marijuana regulations.

Regulators have been completing the recreational market’s regulations in the meantime. They changed the regulations in February, letting caregivers and patients who use medical marijuana obtain or renew their registrations for only a penny. As part of an initial package of rules announced by the DCC in February to effectuate recreational legalization, this fee was fully deleted with the adoption of a new rule at the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR) conference last month.

When the market is finally launched, many entrepreneurs will have a chance to start thriving marijuana businesses similar to entities currently operating in other jurisdictions, such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF).

About CNW420

CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Study Finds Adolescents’ Use of Marijuana Heightens Psychotic Disorders Risk

A recent study featured in the “Psychological Medicine” journal delves into the relationship between adolescent marijuana use and the development of psychotic disorders. The research indicates a significant increase in psychotic disorder risks during adolescence linked to marijuana use, a risk that is particularly pronounced with the stronger marijuana products available today. Interestingly, this increased risk does not extend into young adulthood.

Previous studies have suggested a link between youth marijuana use and psychotic disorders, noting a higher likelihood of such disorders among marijuana users. These earlier studies often relied on outdated data when marijuana was less potent and faced limitations such as small sample sizes and less clinically significant outcomes.

The recent study assessed the relationship between teenage marijuana usage and the likelihood of receiving a clinical diagnosis of a psychotic condition using more recent population-based statistics. The goal of the research was to bring the findings up to speed with the current increase in marijuana potency.

Data were drawn from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) between 2009 and 2012, linked with Ontario’s administrative health records. The study focused on Ontario residents aged 12 to 24 years of age. Those with incomplete medical records or a history of psychotic disorders were excluded, resulting in a final sample of 11,363 participants.

Information on marijuana use and other substance usage, along with sociodemographic details was collected through interviews conducted both by phone and in person. The follow-up ended in 2018 after a maximum of nine years of monitoring the participants. The analysis accounted for various confounding factors, including sex, age, race, other drug use and income.

Approximately 23.4% of respondents reported using marijuana in the past 12 months, and during the follow-up, 1.2% sought healthcare for psychotic disorders. The analysis revealed a significant association between psychotic disorders and recent marijuana use among adolescents aged 12 to 19 years of age, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 11.21. This was not found in young adults aged 20 to 33 years of age, who had an aHR of 1.29.

Subsequent analysis supported these results, demonstrating an aHR of 26.68 for adolescent cannabis users’ hospitalizations or doctor visits linked to psychotic illnesses. Additionally, a dose-response association was noted, with an aHR of 10.70 indicating that frequent marijuana use among teenagers was associated with a higher risk. An analysis focusing on gender revealed that this link, with an aHR of 9.98, was significant for teenage males.

Additionally, the study discovered a substantial correlation between cannabis usage in the year prior and the utilization of healthcare services for psychotic disorders in the past, indicating a possible reverse causal relationship.

The study’s strengths include the use of representative and high-quality data from the CCHS and linked health records, as well as a validated outcome measure and recent cannabis potency data. However, limitations include a single baseline assessment, self-reported marijuana use, and possible unmeasured confounding measures including family history, trauma and genetic predispositions.

These findings hold important implications for public policy and health, especially concerning the prevention of teenage marijuana use.

This elevated risk of adolescents developing psychosis when they use marijuana makes a strong case for allowing legal marijuana sales by licensed companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) in states because guardrails, including verifying the age of a product buyer, can be implemented to make it harder for teens to access marijuana.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — More States Could Mark Upcoming 4/20s with Legal Access to Marijuana

Marijuana remains prohibited under federal law in the United States, yet a significant number of states have opted to legalize its recreational use. Currently, 24 states and the District of Columbia (“DC”) have passed legislation permitting recreational cannabis, as reported by the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML). Additionally, 38 states and DC have established regulations allowing for medical cannabis usage.

A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center highlights that a large majority of American adults, accounting for 88%, advocate for the legalization of marijuana. Within this majority, 32% express support for its legalization solely for medical purposes, while 57% endorse legalization for both recreational and medical use.

This year, the trend of legalizing recreational cannabis is continuing in various states. Notably, Florida is moving forward with a measure proposed by Smart and Safe Florida, which garnered more than a million signatures to put the measure on November’s ballot. The initiative seeks to legalize the recreational use of cannabis products and accessories for adults 21 years of age and older. Following approval by the state’s Supreme Court on April 1, 2024, the proposed amendment, known as Amendment 3, will be subjected to a vote by the public in November. However, achieving legalization in Florida necessitates a minimum of 60% of the vote in favor.

Similarly, a bill to legalize cannabis for recreational use at the beginning of January 2026 was recently passed by the state senate of Hawaii. Although the senate approved the bill with a vote of 19–6, hurdles are anticipated in the house. Florida Governor Josh Green has expressed support for the measure.

Meanwhile, New Hampshire’s House of Representatives endorsed a bill in April advocating for the legalization of cannabis and permitting adult usage. The bill proceeds to the senate for consideration, a step it has yet to undergo. New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, who previously opposed legalization, now acknowledges the majority support for it among residents and asserts his readiness to sign a legalization bill emphasizing harm reduction over profits.

Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania recently included the legalization of cannabis in his state budget proposal, prompting deliberation among state legislators. Likewise, in South Dakota, advocates are pushing to include cannabis legalization on the ballot for the third time. They must submit the requisite number of signatures by May 7, 2024, for the measure to be voted on in November, following previous setbacks in 2020 and 2022.

Established marijuana companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) are likely to follow the developments in the states looking to end prohibition as any reforms enacted there could widen the market for the existing players.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Why the UK Needs to Consider Decriminalizing Cannabis As Germany Just Did

Germany recently passed a new law that decriminalizes marijuana possession and cultivation for personal use, permitting individuals over the age of 18 to possess up to 25 grams of marijuana and cultivate up to three plants for personal use. Beginning in July 2024, German citizens can also join cannabis grower’s associations or not-for-profit social clubs that focus on the collective cultivation of cannabis for members’ benefit.

In contrast to Germany’s progressive stance, the UK government maintains its support for cannabis prohibition, which sets it apart from several nations, including certain U.S. states, Canada and Malta.

One of the primary arguments put forth by UK authorities in favor of prohibition is the concern over the potential negative impact of marijuana on mental health. While research has extensively explored the relationship between marijuana usage and mental-health issues such as psychosis, it has been difficult to demonstrate a clear causal association because of ethical concerns.

However, studies have shown a notable correlation between psychosis and marijuana use, suggesting that certain individuals may be more susceptible to developing psychotic symptoms due to marijuana consumption. Research indicates that the incidence of psychosis among marijuana users remains relatively low compared to the overall number of individuals using the substance. For instance, one study estimated that preventing one case of psychosis would require deterring about 40,000 cannabis users.

Decriminalizing marijuana could yield various public health advantages in the United Kingdom, particularly concerning tobacco use. Many marijuana users in the UK use it together with tobacco, inadvertently exposing themselves to the well-known health risks associated with tobacco, including cancer, stroke and heart disease.

However, the illegality of marijuana in the UK complicates efforts by public-health organizations to intervene effectively. Germany, on the other hand, has a thorough public-health education campaign that aims to educate people about the dangers of cannabis usage. This contrasts with the lack of quality control and information in illicit markets where cannabis remains prohibited.

Notably, political parties such as the Conservatives and Labor have demonstrated little willingness to decriminalize marijuana despite the substance being widely used in the region. Surveys showing public support for current policies may have an impact on this hesitation.

Moving beyond decriminalization to legalization could offer substantial financial benefits. Estimates suggest that legalizing marijuana in Germany could generate annual tax revenue of approximately $4 billion, similar to the regulated market in Canada. Given the financial strain on public services, particularly the NHS, persisting with marijuana prohibition in the UK represents a missed opportunity for public health and is a costly policy choice.

The step that Germany has taken in decriminalizing marijuana could trigger a domino effect round the bloc and create a robust international market for companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), which may be interested in growing their footprint outside their primary North American market.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — California Officials Dispatch $12M in Grants to Fix Drug-War Harms

California authorities have allocated $12 million in grants to various cities in the state, funded by taxes from cannabis sales. These funds are provided to support equity initiatives for individuals disproportionately affected by previous antidrug campaigns.

This latest disbursement is part of the ongoing Marijuana Equity Grants Program for Local Jurisdictions, administered by the Governor’s Office of Business and…

420 with CNW — Why the Federal Government Is Not Acting Fast to Reform Cannabis Laws Despite Public Support

The legal status of cannabis remains complex in the United States, with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) playing a central role. For years, the agency has maintained that cannabis is a highly dangerous and addictive drug and lacks medical value, despite contrary evidence from public opinion, medical research and state laws.

This has led to a situation where marijuana is readily accessible in certain states, heavily penalized in others and federally illegal throughout the country. According to Carmel Shachar, a professor at Harvard School of Law, the U.S. courts or Congress could resolve this confusion, but so far, there’s been limited action.

Currently, the DEA classifies cannabis as a Schedule I substance, alongside ecstasy, heroin and LSD. This classification indicates that the substances have a high addiction and abuse potential with no recognized medical benefits. Shachar points out the irony of cannabis being more restricted than substances such as morphine and cocaine, which are classified as Schedule II and acknowledged to have medical uses.

Marijuana’s Schedule I classification presents significant barriers to research into its potential medical benefits, creating a cycle where its value cannot be proven due to federal restrictions. Cannabis has remained under this classification since 1971, when it was initially added to the list under President Richard Nixon. According to experts, Nixon’s decision was influenced more by political motives than scientific evidence.

At the moment, the next potential development involves the DEA considering reclassifying cannabis to a lower schedule, though this wouldn’t federally legalize the substance. Advocates view this as a symbolic step in the right direction while also recognizing that it falls short of meaningful change.

Reclassification to Schedule III would allow for medical prescriptions but wouldn’t resolve the conflict between federal and state laws. To fully address this conflict, though still distant, cannabis would need to be removed from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) altogether, according to experts. This means cannabis would be regulated in the same way as tobacco and alcohol.

National polls indicate that public support for cannabis legalization is high, with 70% of U.S. citizens in favor, according to a Gallup survey. Additionally, only 10% of people, according to a 2022 Pew Research Center poll, think the substance should be outlawed. By contrast, 30% favor legalization for only medical purposes, while 59% favor legalization for recreational and medical purposes.

Despite the overwhelming support, legalization progress is slow because of several factors, including differing opinions among legislators and concerns about potential health risks. As advocates note, while rescheduling is a positive step, it’s insufficient, and there’s no justification for marijuana to remain under federal regulation.

The cannabis industry, including entities such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), is focused on operating within the existing regulatory frameworks at state and federal level as it advocates for further reforms to be enacted.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Judge Rejects Challenge by Out-of-State Residents Against New York’s Cannabis Program

A recent ruling by a federal judge Anne M. Nardacci has dismissed a lawsuit challenging New York’s cannabis licensing program. The lawsuit, filed by two applicants from California, argued that the program unfairly discriminates against non-New York state residents. The ruling would allow the state to grant more licenses, which would have a big effect on a market that is primarily controlled by illegal businesses.

According to Nardacci, the public’s interest in allowing legitimately licensed entities to dominate the market outweighs the issues brought up by the plaintiffs. She noted that the plaintiffs-cited dormant Commerce Provision does not apply to illegal marijuana commerce on federal territory. Rather, due to the lack of Congressional legislation, the provision prohibits states from enacting protectionist policies that hinder interstate commerce.

The legal action, initiated in mid-December by two Los Angeles-based companies, sought a preliminary injunction and temporary restraining orders. Their goal was to halt the state’s licensing procedure during the course of litigation. Nardacci, however, denied the motions, stating that the implementation of regulated permits for the sale of marijuana products would be delayed if an injunction were granted, maintaining the dominance of illegal operators in the market.

New York attorney general Letitia James expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision, noting its significance in ensuring equitable opportunities for disproportionately affected communities within the legal marijuana industry.

New York launched its cannabis program in October last year, intending to give priority to people with past drug convictions who are seeking permits. The strategy aimed to give individuals negatively impacted by the drug war an opportunity before rivals overflowed the market.

Attorneys for the state claimed that more than 1,000 retail locations were expected to be granted licenses this year. They stated that applicants from outside the state are accommodated by the application process, which enables them to prove that they reside in regions that have been disproportionately affected by marijuana prohibition. These measures were anticipated to increase the number of licensed dispensaries, challenging the dominance of black-market vendors who operate unlicensed retail locations.

Critics point to bureaucratic obstacles as the reason for the slow growth of New York’s retail cannabis market, citing delays in the social-equity fund rollout intended to assist applicants in launching stores. The licensing process has also faced legal challenges from excluded individuals and businesses, with a recent lawsuit aiming to further delay the process.

This court victory is a win for the broader cannabis industry, including companies operating in other state markets, such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), since the decision leaves regulators in New York state free to proceed with the rollout of recreational cannabis sales.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — New York Grants Recreational Sales Licenses to Medical Cannabis Companies

The state of New York recently permitted eight medical cannabis companies to sell recreational cannabis. This brings the number of companies that can sell recreational cannabis in the state to more than a dozen. In December 2023, six companies received registered organization dispensing licenses, and in January, the Cannabis Control Board approved licenses for two more companies, among them Green Thumb Industries.

Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF), a company based in Chicago, entered the New York’s marijuana market in 2019, following its acquisition of Fiorello Pharmaceuticals. Currently, the company operates more than 90 recreational marijuana dispensaries in 15 states and 4 medical dispensaries under Fiorello’s medical marijuana license.

Green Thumb’s location in Henrietta, called RISE, is the sole dispensary under the company to have received a license to sell recreational marijuana to customers in New York. The company’s senior VP of Revenue, Dominic O’Brien, stated that the company had been serving medical cannabis patients for almost give years in the state and that would remain a priority for the organization.

While a large share of Green Thumb’s market is still medical marijuana patients, O’Brien noted that he was optimistic and excited about bringing recreational marijuana products already sold in other states to RISE, among them EVO, Incredibles and Dog Walkers.

Medical cannabis providers have been part of the state’s marijuana industry since the implementation of its medical cannabis program in 2016. Medical companies are vertically integrated, which allows them to cultivate, process and sell their own produce under a single license.

In the past, some independent growers have raised concerns that the presence of medical companies might drive them out of New York’s burgeoning recreational market. This sentiment isn’t shared by all, however. The director of policy for the Office of Cannabis Management, John Kagia, states that the companies’ inclusion may help expand the state’s retail capacity at a faster pace.

New York has, in the past, struggled with access to licensed retail dispensaries. In August 2023, a court injunction left many applications that had been submitted to the state’s Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary in limbo, which prevented the Office of Cannabis Management from issuing any other licenses until the injunction was lifted a couple of months later by the supreme court.

With the issue now sorted, Kagia expects that New York may issue more than a thousand licenses to manufacturers, growers, retailers and distributors in the coming months. With these changes, he notes that retailers that sell both recreational and medical marijuana will be required by law to stock products from other suppliers in the market.

Currently, regulations require that all recreational and medical marijuana sold by licensed retailers in New York must be grown in the state.

About CNW420

CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of two informative articles each business day. Our concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. Articles are released each business day at 4:20 a.m. and 4:20 p.m. Eastern – our tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — SD Assembly Approves Legislation Sanctioning Cannabis Companies Without Warnings on Gun Ownership

South Dakota’s Assembly has passed two bills highlighting that those who use medical cannabis may be prevented from legally possessing firearms under federal law. The legislation includes adding policy notices in cannabis dispensaries and on patient applications. Failure to comply with these standards may result in daily fines for dispensaries.

The first measure, relating to marijuana patients’ applications, received resounding support with a 68 to 1 vote, while the second one, concerning dispensaries, faced a more divided vote, passing 42 to 27.

According to the legislation, medical marijuana dispensaries in South Dakota must display a warning sign stating that federal law forbids firearm possession for persons addicted to or using cannabis. The measure allows suspension if the attorney general certifies that federal law no longer prohibits firearm possession for such individuals.

Representative Kevin Jensen sponsored both bills, noting his vast background as a gun trainer and dealer. He stated that many people are unaware that this specific federal statute even exists.

Some industry players argue that the law requiring dispensaries to display notices of the statute at entrances and every point of sale brings an unwarranted burden on the operators. In response to these worries, Jensen stated that dispensaries wouldn’t have to pay more as a result of the regulation. He also noted that the $250 daily fine for noncompliance is only one-half of the cost that federal authorities impose on retailers that neglect to post notices on tobacco products.

Additionally, Jensen stated that the state’s health department would be in charge of implementing the rule and gathering fines as part of their regular inspections.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has continuously argued in federal courts that the ban on firearms for marijuana users is necessary because possession presents a special risk, similar to the situation where people with severe mental illnesses aren’t permitted to possess firearms. The DOJ justified the prohibition by citing historical precedence and claiming that cannabis users pose a threat to society since they would likely store their weapons improperly.

Despite the federal government’s view, certain federal courts have ruled that the marijuana-related firearm restriction is unlawful, prompting the DOJ to file an ongoing appeal.

A 2019 FBI memo came to light, suggesting that the federal authorities do not usually view the possession of firearms by medicinal cannabis producers and caregivers as a legal crime.

In the broader context of gun and marijuana policy, GOP congressional legislators have introduced two bills this session aiming to address the intersection of gun ownership and cannabis use.

The proposed reforms in South Dakota are still a developing story, and major cannabis companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) operating in more established markets are unlikely to give the legislation much thought until the final law takes shape and its ramifications on the broader industry are assessed.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com

CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN

420 with CNW — Study Says Most Cancer Survivors Using Cannabis See Significant Symptom Relief

A recent study involving 1,886 individuals who have battled cancer revealed that almost one-half of them, at some point, have utilized marijuana, either currently or in the past. Among those who turned to cannabis postdiagnosis, the primary motive was to alleviate symptoms such as pain and sleep disturbances. Notably, approximately 20% of cancer survivors currently resort to marijuana for relief from symptoms while actively undergoing cancer treatment.

The study, published in the “Cancer Survivorship Journal,” underscored the noteworthy prevalence of marijuana use among those who have conquered cancer. A majority of respondents reported significant improvement in symptoms for which they employed cannabis.

Out of all respondents, 17.4% identified as active marijuana users, 30.5% as past users and 52.2% as noncannabis users. Among the 510 participants who turned to marijuana following their cancer diagnosis, 60% used it for sleep issues, 51% for pain management, 44% for stress, 33% for nausea, and 32% for depression or mood disorders. Additionally, one-fifth of survivors used it as part of their cancer treatment.

Most participants expressed that cannabis effectively addressed their symptoms, with 73.6% finding it greatly effective 24.4% deeming it somewhat effective. A minimal percentage, 1.9%, reported little or no efficacy across various symptoms such as sleep deficiency, pain, appetite, nausea and depression.

Regarding cancer treatment, responses were marginally less enthusiastic. The study reported that 47.7% perceived cannabis as significantly effective, 34.5% found it somewhat effective, 13.8% believed it provided very little help and 4% declared it not helpful at all.

The authors also discovered a low awareness of potential health risks associated with marijuana use, with only about 9% of respondents aware of such risks when asked about them during their cancer treatment. Among the 167 survivors who acknowledged cannabis’ potential health risks, awareness of adverse effects remained low: only 5% were aware it could trigger suicidal thoughts, 6% on intense nausea and vomiting, 11% on depression, 14% on anxiety, 31% on breathing problems, and 35% interference or interactions with cancer treatment.

Given the possibility that individuals may employ marijuana without full knowledge of its potential side effects, the authors advocate for incorporating discussions about therapeutic marijuana into a patient’s comprehensive treatment plan.

This study unfolds amid heightened anticipation within the medical community and beyond, awaiting a decision from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on the rescheduling of cannabis under the federal Controlled Substances Act. While not legalizing medical or recreational cannabis federally, rescheduling could pave the way for FDA approval of marijuana-based drugs and provide tax deductions for medical cannabis entities.

As more studies highlight the therapeutic potential of marijuana, companies such as Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) could tweak their offerings to better address specific groups of medical marijuana consumers.

About CNW420

To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer

CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com