What is cancer?
Cancer is a condition where cells grow uncontrollably, forming malignant neoplasms that can metastasize to several parts of the body. Cancers are named after the area of the body where they start. Cancer is fatal when left untreated. Common treatments include surgery, immunotherapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplant, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy.
Does cancer qualify me for medical marijuana use?
Under Missouri’s medical marijuana rules, cancer is a qualifying medical condition. Any Missourian with a cancer diagnosis is eligible to receive their medical marijuana card. This is great news since there is an overwhelming amount of evidence that shows cannabis can help treat cancer!
How does medical marijuana help treat cancer?
A number of small studies of smoked marijuana found that it can be helpful in treating nausea and vomiting from cancer chemotherapy.
A few studies have found that inhaled (smoked or vaporized) marijuana can be helpful treatment of neuropathic pain (pain caused by damaged nerves).
The THC in marijuana is useful for relieving nausea and cancer pain and reducing inflammation. Cannabichromene (CBC) can also lower inflammation and relieve pain. The National Cancer Institute states that marijuana can also:
Block cell growth
Fight viruses
Relieve muscle spasms
Stop inflammation
Manage pain and nausea
Learn more here about getting your medical marijuana card!