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With the increasing acceptance of medical marijuana, a new study published in the American Medical Association reveals the positive impact of cannabis on patients’ health-related quality of life. The study, conducted by Swinburne University of Technology, University of Western Australia, and Austin Hospital, aimed to examine the health effects and quality of life of individuals prescribed cannabis by Emerald Clinics.
The study followed 3,148 patients over a period of time, surveying data across eight different categories including limitations in physical activities, bodily pain, general mental health, and vitality. The results showed that patients reported an improvement of 6-18 points in these categories, with 10 points considered statistically significant.
Medical marijuana’s popularity is due to the presence of over 200 cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in cannabis that interact with the human body. The body has an endocannabinoid system that engages with these chemicals, regulating various bodily functions such as inflammation, relaxation, and hunger. The most common conditions treated with medical cannabis are non-cancer chronic pain, cancer-related pain, insomnia, and anxiety.
“The use of cannabis as a medicine is becoming increasingly prevalent,” the study reported. “Given the diverse range of conditions being treated with medical cannabis, as well as the vast array of products and dose forms available, clinical evidence incorporating patient-reported outcomes may help determine safety and efficacy.”
Obtaining a medical marijuana card is a relatively simple process. If you need assistance navigating your state’s bureaucracy or finding doctors, you can seek help from Green Health Docs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can medical marijuana help with the national opioid crisis?
While patients may experience some intoxication from cannabis, it does not pose major toxicity concerns compared to opioids. Research suggests that the widespread legalization of marijuana might contribute to reducing opioid use. Studies have shown a decrease in opioid prescribing rates in states where cannabis is legal.
2. What did the Australian study conclude?
The Australian study concluded that there is a favorable association between medical cannabis treatment and the quality of life of patients with various conditions. However, more high-quality trials are needed to establish the efficacy and safety of cannabinoids.
3. How can Green Health Docs help in obtaining a medical marijuana card?
Green Health Docs can assist individuals in navigating the bureaucracy of their state and finding doctors who prescribe medical marijuana. They provide guidance throughout the process to make it easier for patients.
Conclusion
As the acceptance of medical and recreational cannabis continues to grow, more scientific studies are being conducted to explore the potential benefits of marijuana. The recent study published in the American Medical Association confirms that medical cannabis can significantly improve patients’ health-related quality of life. With the presence of numerous cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in cannabis, the human body’s endocannabinoid system can engage with these compounds and regulate various bodily functions. While medical cannabis shows promise, further research is necessary to fully understand its efficacy and safety.
If you are considering medical marijuana and need assistance with obtaining a medical card, Green Health Docs can provide the necessary support.
This article has been reviewed by Dr. Anand Dugar, an anesthesiologist, pain medicine physician and the founder of Green Health Docs. Graduating from medical school in 2004 and residency in 2008, Dr. Dugar has been a licensed physician for almost 20 years and has been leading the push for medical cannabis nationwide.
