The Philadelphia based American College of Physicians published a report supporting research into therapeutic uses of Cannabis, which was discussed in a recent scientific study. The recent scientific article, on the intersection of cannabis and cancer, highlights the reports from the American College of physicians, the American Medical Association, and Internal Office of Medicine that call for more research on the therapeutic potential of Cannabis.
In 2008 the American College of Physicians concluded their report with:
“Evidence not only supports the use of medical marijuana in certain conditions but also suggests numerous indications for cannabinoids. Additional research is needed to further clarify the therapeutic value of cannabinoids and determine optimal routes of administration. The science on medical marijuana should not be obscured or hindered by the debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana for general use.”
The new report concludes by specifically addressing the issues related to Cannabis, cannabinoids, and cancer:
“Moreover, while 15 states and the District of Columbia have eliminated criminal penalties for medical cannabis, it remains illegal on the federal level. New research into cannabinoids and cancer is needed, particularly with respect to cannabinoids’ effects on the standard oncology outcomes of tumor growth and patient survival. The future interplay between cannabis and cancer in the US is uncertain and will be influenced by public sentiment and political persuasion, but the hope is that scientific inquiry will help guide the discussion by providing further insight into the potential risks and benefits of cannabis and cannabinoids in cancer development, treatment, and palliation.”
In the last two decades laws pertaining to medical cannabis in the United States have changed drastically resulting in renewed interest in the therapeutic potential of medical Cannabis. The opening of New Jersey’s Alternative Treatment Centers for medical Cannabis is grabbing the front page of local newspapers. Meanwhile two Cannabis bills in Harrisburg await a hearing that GOP leaders in PA are determined to prevent. Sen. Patricia Vance and Rep. Mathew Baker have no plans to hold a hearing despite 81% of the state's registered voters supporting safe access to medical Cannabis for patients, according to Philly.com reporter Christopher Moraff. The locally based group Pennsylvanians for Medical Marijuana is also following the medical Cannabis bill on their website.
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