Cannabis vs Cancer
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People who have certain symptoms of cancer or side effects of cancer treatment might benefit from using cannabis. Relieving or reducing symptoms and side effects can lead to overall better quality of life for people with cancer and their caregivers. Managing symptoms and side effects well can also reduce the number of emergency room visits and hospital readmissions for things like dehydration due to nausea and vomiting, or uncontrolled severe pain.
Approximately 25 percent of all South Africans will develop cancer in their lifetimes. Although two-thirds will eventually die as a result, many will live with cancer for years beforehand. For this reason, researchers not only seek medicines to prevent and cure the disease but also drugs to make life more comfortable for people with cancer.
Researchers have discovered THC - a compound in cannabis - inhibits growth of human breast cancer cells. In a study, several cancerous human breast cell lines were incubated with THC, the result was decreased growth in all the tumour cells tested.
Cannabis is also beneficial for treating cancer and chemotherapy symptoms. Symptoms such as wasting and appetite loss affect most cancer patients. At best these conditions diminish quality of life; at worst they hasten death. Depending on the type of cancer, 50 to 80 percent of patients will develop Cachexia, a disproportionate loss of lean body tissue. Cachexia occurs most often during the final stages of advanced pancreatic, lung, and prostate cancers.
Cannabis is renowned for its ability to stimulate the appetite aswel, otherwise known as “having the munchies.” This effect is due in large part to the action of THC, which has been confirmed in several studies.
Cannabis is also well known for its anti-inflammatory and pain reduction benefits, making it an excellent relief for any pain or discomfort you might have as a result of chemotherapy symptoms.
Consult with your physician or a medical practitioner before using cannabis as an alternative medicine.
Studies and research done by; Andrea M. Tomko, Erin G. Whynot, Lee D. Ellis, Denis J. Dupré and Mack A, Joy J