In an exciting step forward, the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK has announced a clinical trial scheduled for 2025. The trial will explore the potential benefits of medical cannabis in treating refractory epilepsy, a severe form of the disorder that resists conventional treatments. This trial marks a critical moment in medical cannabis research, particularly for patients who have exhausted other options.

Key Takeaways:

• NHS Trial in 2025: The NHS will trial cannabis-based treatments for refractory epilepsy in adults and children.
• Trial Design: Led by University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital, the trial will involve 500 participants over 24 weeks, testing both CBD and THC products.
• Goal: The trial seeks to provide scientific evidence on the effectiveness of cannabis for seizure control and quality of life.
• Potential Policy Impact: Success could lead to wider medical cannabis access in the UK.
• Supply: Ananda Developments will provide the cannabis for the trial.

Addressing a Critical Need

Refractory epilepsy affects both adults and children, leading to frequent and severe seizures that are often unmanageable with standard anti-epileptic drugs. Many patients and families have been advocating for broader access to cannabis-based treatments, given anecdotal reports of reduced seizures with cannabis extracts, particularly cannabidiol (CBD).

However, much of the evidence so far remains limited, and regulated trials are essential to build clinical knowledge and ensure safety. The NHS’s trial aims to bridge this gap by providing rigorous data on the impact of cannabis on epilepsy patients.

Structure of the Trial

The study will be led by experts from University College London (UCL) and Great Ormond Street Hospital, two major institutions with experience in neurological research. The trial will involve around 500 participants, both adults and children, who suffer from refractory epilepsy. These individuals will be monitored over a 24-week period to assess changes in seizure frequency, sleep quality, behavior, and overall quality of life.

One unique aspect of this trial is that it will examine the effects of both CBD-only products and formulations containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. This dual approach will allow researchers to evaluate whether THC adds any significant therapeutic benefit in combination with CBD.

Potential Impact on Medical Cannabis Policy

If the trial yields positive results, it could pave the way for broader NHS prescriptions of cannabis-based products. Currently, access to medical cannabis in the UK is tightly regulated, with only a handful of patients receiving it through specialist prescriptions. This study could provide the evidence policymakers need to expand access and offer more patients this potentially life-changing treatment.

Supply Chain and Research Collaboration

The trial will be supported by Ananda Developments, a UK-based company specializing in the cultivation and supply of pharmaceutical-grade cannabis. Ananda’s involvement ensures a consistent and high-quality product for the trial, a crucial factor in maintaining the integrity of the research.

Conclusion

The NHS trial set for 2025 offers new hope to individuals and families affected by refractory epilepsy. If successful, it could reshape the medical cannabis landscape in the UK, making these treatments more accessible to patients in need. The results will not only impact public health policy but could also inspire further research into cannabis-based therapies for other chronic conditions.

This initiative is a promising step toward validating the therapeutic potential of cannabis while balancing safety and scientific rigor. As families across the UK wait for the trial to begin, many are hopeful that this study will mark the beginning of a new era in epilepsy treatment.

Past UK Cannabis Studies

The value of real world evidence: The case of medical cannabis (Schlag et al., 2022)

• This paper explores the challenges of using randomized controlled trials for cannabis-based products and highlights the importance of real-world evidence in expanding patient access and understanding the effects of cannabis-based medications.

Developing a real-world evidence base for prescribed cannabis in the United Kingdom: Preliminary findings from Project Twenty21 (Sakal et al., 2021)

• Project Twenty21 focuses on gathering real-world data on the effectiveness and safety of medical cannabis prescribed in the UK. Initial findings indicate improvements in health outcomes and patient-reported well-being.

Medical cannabis in the UK: From principle to practice (Schlag et al., 2020)

• This study discusses the gap between patient demand for medical cannabis and the limited availability of prescriptions through the NHS, exploring solutions to address this disparity.

An observational study of safety and clinical outcome measures across patient groups in the United Kingdom Medical Cannabis Registry (Olsson et al., 2023)

• The study reports on clinical outcomes and safety of cannabis-based medicines, indicating improvements in patient-reported outcomes across chronic conditions with relatively few adverse events.

An updated analysis of clinical outcome measures across patients from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry (Ergisi et al., 2022)

• This paper presents further analysis of patient outcomes, finding significant improvements in anxiety, sleep, and overall quality of life among cannabis users.

Photo by Nicolas J Leclercq on Unsplash

In a massive drug bust, Hong Kong customs officers have seized 500kg of cannabis buds with an estimated street value of HK$130 million (US$167 million). This bust, uncovered in a shipment of soybeans from Canada, has pushed the total amount of cannabis confiscated in 2024 to a staggering 2.6 tonnes. This marks an 80% increase in cannabis seizures compared to the same period last year.

The discovery, made on September 27, highlights the growing sophistication of drug trafficking networks and the vigilance of Hong Kong’s Customs and Excise Department. The cannabis was hidden within 83 sacks of soybeans in a sea shipment from Canada, with traffickers attempting to evade detection by using vacuum-sealed bags to suppress the drug’s odor and strategically placing the sacks at the bottom of the shipment.

Cannabis Trafficking in Hong Kong: A Growing Concern

This latest haul is part of a broader rise in drug seizures across Hong Kong. Assistant Superintendent Jacky Tsang Kin-bon of the customs’ drugs investigation bureau reported that the amount of cannabis seized this year had already surpassed the total found in 2023. Hong Kong authorities have been ramping up efforts to disrupt these criminal networks through intelligence sharing and advanced risk assessment strategies targeting air, sea, and land shipments.

The arrests include a 54-year-old man, who was apprehended when he arrived to collect the shipment, as well as a 44-year-old woman and a 55-year-old man who were arrested days later. All three are facing charges of trafficking in a dangerous drug, an offence punishable by up to life imprisonment and a HK$5 million fine.

Increasing Street Value of Cannabis

Interestingly, the seizure has also had ripple effects on Hong Kong’s underground cannabis market. A previous bust in February saw 570kg of cannabis buds confiscated from a Fanling warehouse, significantly disrupting supply chains. In fact, the price of cannabis on the black market has surged, rising to HK$270 per gram in July, up 30% from HK$200 per gram in March.

This spike in price reflects both the scarcity of supply following major seizures and the ongoing demand for the drug, despite its illegal status in Hong Kong.

Regional and International Cooperation

Customs authorities in Hong Kong have attributed their success to a robust network of international and regional cooperation. As Tsang pointed out, they are working closely with mainland China and overseas law enforcement agencies to combat the trafficking of illegal drugs. The continued collaboration is crucial in identifying and dismantling drug distribution networks, as investigations into the source of the cannabis and the criminals’ distribution networks are still ongoing.

Growing Cannabis Seizures Reflect Increased Smuggling Efforts

Seizures of cannabis have surged dramatically in 2024, with authorities confiscating over 3,021kg of the drug between January and July, marking a 108% increase from the 1,449kg seized in the same period last year. This trend highlights the increased efforts by smugglers to exploit Hong Kong’s busy trade routes while also reflecting the growing global cannabis market.

Photo: Photo by Andrew Jephson on Unsplash

Before we move forward, I want to express my deepest condolences to the family that has lost a loved one. My heart goes out to you, and I’m truly sorry that this clinic and doctor failed you and your son.

If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or struggling with your mental health, please reach out. You don’t have to face this alone. Call Lifeline Australia at 13 11 14 or visit someone.health for bulk billing psychology access to mental health support. You matter, and there is help available.

Key Takeaways:

Investigation Triggered by Tragic Cases: The investigation focuses on two cases—one involving a patient’s suicide and another where a patient was hospitalized with psychosis—both after being prescribed medicinal cannabis.

Concerns Over Prescribing Practices: The clinic allegedly prescribed cannabis to patients with known mental health conditions, raising concerns about proper medical evaluation and oversight.

Regulatory Scrutiny: This investigation highlights the need for tighter regulations around medicinal cannabis prescriptions, especially for high-risk individuals.

A medicinal cannabis clinic in Australia is under investigation after two tragic cases involving patients who were prescribed cannabis despite pre-existing mental health conditions. One patient died by suicide, and another was hospitalized with psychosis. These incidents have triggered a probe into the prescribing practices of the company and the doctors involved, raising serious concerns about patient safety, mental health care, and the regulation of medicinal cannabis. The two doctors involved have been suspended while these cases get investigated.

The Cases Under Investigation

The investigation is centered on Dispensed, a medical clinic that prescribed medicinal cannabis to both patients. The company remains operational despite serious concerns, though one of its owner, Adem Younes, has been suspended from dispensing cannabis. This investigation has brought to light potential gaps in how cannabis prescriptions are handled, particularly for patients with severe mental health conditions. This patient should never have been prescribed medicinal cannabis in the first place, the Doctor failed to be ethical and provide the proper care – because of this, a family now has one less member.

Patient 1: A 41-Year-Old Man’s Suicide

A 41-year-old man from New South Wales, with a documented history of hallucinations and use of anti-psychotic medication, died by suicide in February. Despite his known mental health condition, Dispensed prescribed him medicinal cannabis—a decision that is now under serious scrutiny.

Experts have raised concerns that medicinal cannabis, particularly THC, may have exacerbated the patient’s underlying psychosis, contributing to his death. Mental health professionals have long cautioned against using cannabis for patients with schizophrenia or psychotic disorders, as it can trigger or worsen symptoms like hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions.

Disturbingly, even after the man’s death, his parents informed Dispensed of the tragedy, but the clinic still sent out two additional packages of medicinal cannabis to the family home. This lack of oversight and communication has only intensified the investigation, raising questions about the clinic’s internal processes and patient care protocols.

Patient 2: Schizophrenia Worsened by Cannabis

The second case involves a patient diagnosed with schizophrenia whose condition worsened after receiving medicinal cannabis from Dispensed. Despite his mother informing the clinic about his pre-existing schizophrenia, the company continued to prescribe cannabis to him.

By March, the patient’s mental health had deteriorated significantly, leading to hospitalization for psychosis. Even after being told by the mother that her son had been hospitalized, Dispensed continued to contact the patient, demonstrating a troubling lack of follow-up care and patient safety.

Key Issues: Patient Safety and Mental Health Oversight

These tragic cases expose critical flaws in the current medicinal cannabis prescribing practices, particularly for patients with known mental health conditions. The investigation by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is looking into whether the doctors involved acted inappropriately by prescribing cannabis to high-risk patients.

Several key issues have emerged:

• Known Mental Health Conditions: Both patients had significant mental health histories, including schizophrenia and hallucinations, conditions that are typically considered red flags for cannabis use due to the risk of worsening psychosis.
• Communication Failures: Despite being alerted by the family members of both patients about their mental health conditions, the clinic continued to prescribe cannabis. Even after Patient 1’s death, the clinic sent additional cannabis shipments, pointing to serious flaws in communication and oversight.
• Lack of Follow-Up: Patient 2 was still contacted by the clinic after being hospitalized, raising concerns about how closely the clinic monitored patients after prescribing cannabis, especially in high-risk cases.

Medicinal Cannabis and Mental Health: A Complex Relationship

Medicinal cannabis has shown promise in managing chronic pain, anxiety, and other conditions, but its relationship with mental health—especially for patients with conditions like schizophrenia—is complex and can be dangerous. The psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC, has been linked to the onset and worsening of psychotic symptoms in vulnerable individuals.

Consistent with the Queensland Health recommendations, guidance suggests that medicinal cannabis products containing THC are generally not appropriate for patients who:

• Have a previous psychotic disorder or a concurrent active mood or anxiety disorder;
• Are pregnant, planning on becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding; and/or
• Have unstable cardiovascular disease.

In these cases, prescribing doctors must conduct thorough evaluations to assess the risks and ensure the patient’s safety. Both patients in these tragic cases had clear contraindications for medicinal cannabis use based on these guidelines, yet they were still prescribed cannabis, leading to devastating outcomes.

The Broader Implications for Medicinal Cannabis Regulation

The investigation into Dispensed could lead to significant regulatory changes in Australia’s medicinal cannabis industry. As cannabis becomes more widely accepted as a therapeutic option, it is crucial to ensure that vulnerable patients, particularly those with mental health conditions, are protected from potential risks.

The ongoing investigation may prompt regulators to introduce:

• Stricter mental health screening requirements for patients seeking medicinal cannabis.
• Improved patient follow-up protocols, particularly for high-risk patients with mental health issues.
• Enhanced communication guidelines for healthcare providers to ensure that families and caregivers are kept informed and that their concerns are acted upon.

These changes could improve patient safety and help prevent further tragedies.

A Need for Vigilance in Cannabis Prescribing Practices

The tragic deaths and hospitalizations of these two patients serve as a stark reminder that mental health must be a central consideration in the prescribing of medicinal cannabis. While cannabis can offer relief for certain conditions, it also carries significant risks, particularly for individuals with a history of mental health challenges.

As the investigation unfolds, there will likely be calls for tighter regulations and better safeguards to ensure that medicinal cannabis is prescribed and monitored responsibly. Protecting vulnerable patients, such as those with schizophrenia or psychotic disorders, should be a top priority for healthcare providers and regulatory bodies alike.

This is not the first time a Dr or clinic has come under fire, one Doctor by the name of Christopher Anigbo recommended a patient to vaporize his THC tincture instead of orally ingesting it.

It looks like they’ve also limited comments on their Facebook page.

Photo: ABC

Cannabis lovers in Sacramento could soon have a new place to unwind and enjoy their favorite herb, as the city moves closer to allowing cannabis consumption lounges. Think of it as a café or bar—but instead of alcohol, it’s all about marijuana. Sounds pretty cool, right? These lounges could redefine how cannabis is experienced socially, offering a unique, communal space for cannabis enthusiasts.

What Exactly Is a Cannabis Lounge?

For those unfamiliar, a cannabis lounge is a designated public space where people can legally consume cannabis in a social setting. Picture a laid-back atmosphere where friends can gather, chat, and enjoy weed together—kind of like the vibes you’d get from a cozy coffee shop or a trendy cocktail lounge, but with the added twist of legal cannabis consumption.

The concept has already taken root in cities like San Francisco, West Hollywood, and Denver, where cannabis lounges have become a hit. Visitors get the chance to try different strains, infused beverages, or edibles in a comfortable environment, without having to worry about breaking any laws or disturbing neighbors. And Sacramento? Well, it seems to be gearing up to join that list.

Sacramento’s Move Towards Cannabis Lounges

As Sacramento eyes the legalization of cannabis lounges, officials are working on crafting the right regulations to bring these social consumption spaces to life. According to recent reports, city council members are discussing the potential zoning, safety measures, and overall structure for these lounges. One of the major factors driving this is the desire to expand the local cannabis market and attract tourists looking for a unique experience.

There’s definitely a sense of excitement, both from the cannabis community and local businesses that could benefit from the increased foot traffic. Think about it: cannabis tourists from all over could soon be flocking to Sacramento to experience a different side of cannabis culture. And it’s not just about the consumers—local dispensaries and businesses could also see a boost.

According to Sacramento’s Office of Cannabis Management, lounges could be a way to bridge the gap between cannabis consumers and the city’s economic growth. Not to mention, it gives residents who live in housing where smoking or vaping is prohibited a safe, legal space to enjoy their cannabis products.

Why Cannabis Lounges Matter

So why is this such a big deal? It’s not just about giving people a cool new hangout spot. Cannabis lounges represent a broader shift in how cannabis is viewed and integrated into daily life. For so long, cannabis consumption has been stigmatized, kept behind closed doors, and treated as something that had to be hidden. But with the rise of these lounges, cannabis is moving into the mainstream, being treated more like alcohol—a substance that can be enjoyed responsibly in a social setting.

One of the great things about cannabis lounges is that they create an environment where education and socializing meet. People can learn about different strains, how to consume cannabis responsibly, and even explore products they might not have considered before, all while having a chill time with friends. It’s also a chance for cannabis brands to interact directly with their audience in real-time, which is pretty rare in most retail settings.

Safety and Regulation: What’s the Plan?

Of course, like with any public consumption space, safety is a top priority. Sacramento officials are being very careful to ensure that these lounges don’t contribute to impaired driving or disrupt the surrounding community. Regulations around cannabis lounges are expected to be strict, likely involving designated consumption zones, limitations on operating hours, and clear rules about intoxicated customers leaving the premises.

To combat potential issues, some experts suggest that lounges should partner with ride-share services or offer in-house options for customers who may need help getting home safely. In addition, Sacramento’s officials are also looking at other cities’ models to learn what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to balancing public safety with consumer enjoyment.

The Community’s Reaction

So far, the response from the community seems to be a mix of curiosity and optimism. Many people are excited about the idea of having a safe and welcoming place to enjoy cannabis socially. Local businesses, too, are paying attention—especially since lounges could boost tourism and bring more customers to nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions.

However, not everyone is sold on the idea. Some are concerned about potential nuisances like increased foot traffic, the smell of cannabis, or the possibility of lounges turning into hotspots for disruptive behavior. But as with any new development, much of the success will depend on how well Sacramento implements the rules and regulations to ensure these spaces remain enjoyable and respectful for everyone involved.

A New Era for Cannabis Culture

The introduction of cannabis lounges in Sacramento marks an exciting time for the city’s cannabis community. These spaces aren’t just about consumption—they’re about building connections, fostering education, and helping to remove the stigma that still surrounds cannabis use. As Sacramento inches closer to making these lounges a reality, we could soon see a vibrant new layer of the city’s social scene, one where cannabis isn’t hidden away but celebrated openly and responsibly.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s clear that cannabis lounges could bring a fresh energy to Sacramento’s culture. So the next time you’re thinking about meeting up with friends, maybe instead of a bar or café, you’ll be heading to the city’s newest cannabis lounge to unwind and enjoy the high.

In a groundbreaking move, New Mexico could soon be one of the first states to allow medical marijuana for female orgasm difficulty (FOD). The state’s Medical Cannabis Advisory Board recently voted to recommend adding FOD to the list of qualifying conditions for the state’s medical cannabis program, recognizing the potential benefits of cannabis for sexual health.

How Cannabis Can Help with Female Orgasm Difficulty

Cannabis and sexual wellness is becoming a hot topic in the medical community, with many studies showing its benefits for improving sexual function. For women who experience difficulty reaching orgasm, cannabis could be a game-changer. Research indicates that cannabis can help by:

• Increasing orgasm ease: Studies show that 71% of women reported easier orgasms after using cannabis .
• Improving satisfaction: 67% of women said they experienced greater satisfaction during sex when using cannabis .
• Enhancing sexual desire: Cannabis has been linked to increased sexual desire and pleasure, especially when used in lower doses .

Why Medical Marijuana for FOD?

The science behind cannabis and orgasm difficulty lies in how cannabis interacts with the brain’s default mode network (DMN). This network can keep people stuck in their heads, blocking relaxation and pleasure. Cannabis helps quiet this network, making it easier for women to be present and experience orgasm.

Dr. Jordan Tishler, a specialist in cannabis and sexual function, explains that by disrupting overthinking and stress, cannabis creates a more relaxed mental state, allowing for better sexual experiences .

States Moving Towards Cannabis for Sexual Health

New Mexico is not alone in considering medical marijuana for sexual health. Other states like Connecticut, Illinois, Oregon, and Arkansas are also looking at adding FOD to their medical cannabis programs. Advocates like Suzanne Mulvehill, a clinical sexologist, are leading the charge, highlighting that millions of women worldwide suffer from FOD, and conventional treatments are scarce.

According to Mulvehill’s research, cannabis not only helps with orgasm difficulty but can improve overall sexual satisfaction . These findings have helped drive momentum for states to recognize female sexual health as a legitimate reason for medical cannabis use.

The Growing Body of Research on Cannabis and Sexual Function

A growing number of studies are exploring the connection between marijuana and sexual health. For example, research published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that more than 70% of adults who use cannabis before sex report increased desire and improved orgasms . Other studies have shown that women who use cannabis regularly report having better sex overall .

However, not all cannabis use is created equal. Studies show that THC dosage plays a role in sexual function. Lower doses of THC are often associated with heightened arousal and satisfaction, while higher doses may reduce desire or have no effect . This makes understanding the right strain and dosage crucial for maximizing the benefits of cannabis for sexual health.

Next Steps for New Mexico’s Medical Marijuana Program

The next step for New Mexico’s medical marijuana program is for the Secretary of Health to review the recommendation. If approved, women experiencing FOD could soon access cannabis as a treatment, offering them a new way to address sexual health issues that have historically been overlooked.

As more states consider adding FOD to their medical cannabis programs, the conversation about cannabis for sexual wellness continues to grow. Cannabis could be a powerful tool for closing the “orgasm gap” and helping women experience more satisfying sex lives.

Conclusion: Cannabis as a Tool for Better Sexual Health

With studies showing that medical marijuana can improve sexual function and satisfaction, it’s clear that cannabis holds potential in addressing female orgasm difficulty and other sexual health issues. As the conversation progresses in states like New Mexico, women may soon have access to a natural, plant-based treatment for improving their sexual well-being.

Sources:

1. Study on THC Dosage and Sexual Arousal
2. Effects of Cannabis on Orgasm Frequency
3. Cannabis and Default Mode Network
4. Research on Women, Cannabis, and Better Sex
5. Review on THC and Libido

Introduction

Ohio’s journey towards recreational cannabis legalization is progressing rapidly. With recent approvals for cultivation and processing licenses, the state is preparing for the anticipated launch of adult-use cannabis sales.

Key Developments

1. License Approvals: Ohio has issued 34 adult-use cannabis licenses, encompassing cultivators, processors, and testing laboratories. Notably, dispensaries are still awaiting their final approvals.
2. Cultivators and Processors: Among the recent approvals, prominent companies like Verano and Cresco Labs have received dual-use certificates for cultivation and processing.
3. Dispensary Status: Despite the issuance of numerous cultivation and processing licenses, no dispensaries have been green-lit yet, delaying the retail sales of adult-use cannabis.

Market Implications

The dual-use licenses will enable businesses to serve both medical and adult-use markets, fostering a robust cannabis supply chain. However, the market’s full functionality depends on the final approval of dispensary licenses.

Conclusion

Ohio’s cannabis market is on the brink of a significant transformation. As the state moves closer to legalizing adult-use cannabis, the emphasis on thorough licensing and regulatory processes ensures a well-structured and inclusive market.

Introduction

In a groundbreaking move, Missouri has awarded 57 cannabis microbusiness licenses as part of its initiative to diversify the cannabis industry and support small-scale businesses. This decision, announced by the Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation, marks a significant step towards fostering local economic growth and inclusivity in the state’s cannabis market.

Key Highlights

1. Promoting Diversity: These licenses are designed to ensure a more diverse representation within Missouri’s cannabis industry by providing opportunities for small businesses and underrepresented entrepreneurs.
2. Economic Impact: The microbusiness licenses are expected to stimulate local economies, allowing smaller businesses to thrive in the burgeoning cannabis market.
3. Supporting Entrepreneurs: This initiative opens doors for new entrepreneurs, encouraging innovation and growth within the cannabis sector.

The Selection Process

The winners were selected through a lottery system, ensuring a fair and transparent process. This second round of licenses adds to the momentum of the first round, further solidifying Missouri’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive cannabis industry.

Conclusion

Missouri’s approach to awarding cannabis microbusiness licenses is a forward-thinking move that promotes diversity, economic growth, and entrepreneurial opportunities. By supporting small-scale businesses, the state is paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic cannabis market.

Introduction

In an unexpected yet thrilling twist, Snoop Dogg has become a central figure at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The renowned rapper has taken on a new role as a special correspondent for NBC, blending his signature style with the global event’s grandeur. This article explores Snoop Dogg’s involvement in the Olympics, from carrying the iconic torch to engaging with athletes and fans alike.

Snoop Dogg and the Olympic Torch

Snoop Dogg’s Olympic journey began with him carrying the torch during its 67th leg in Paris. This momentous occasion saw the rapper contributing to the legacy of the Games in a uniquely memorable way. His participation was not just ceremonial; it symbolized a bridge between pop culture and the traditional spirit of the Olympics.

Bringing Flair to Olympic Coverage

NBC’s decision to include Snoop Dogg as a correspondent has added an exciting dynamic to their coverage. Snoop has been actively involved, interviewing key figures such as Simone Biles’ family and engaging with the U.S. Olympic fencing team. His relaxed, charismatic interviewing style provides viewers with a refreshing perspective on the Games.

Highlights from the Opening Ceremony

During the opening ceremony, Snoop Dogg’s presence was felt everywhere. He was seen grooving to Lady Gaga’s performance, highlighting his ability to blend seamlessly into diverse settings. His social media presence has also been a hit, sharing moments with fans and bringing them closer to the Olympic experience.

A Celebration of Passion and Dedication

Snoop Dogg’s involvement in the Olympics extends beyond his on-screen appearances. His passion for the event and his dedication to bringing a unique perspective to the coverage exemplify the spirit of the Games. As he stated, “It’s a celebration of skill, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness,” words that resonate deeply with both athletes and fans.

Conclusion

Snoop Dogg’s role at the 2024 Paris Olympics is a testament to his versatility and the evolving nature of the Games. His ability to connect with people, combined with his genuine enthusiasm, has made his participation a highlight of the Olympics. As the Games continue, fans can look forward to more memorable moments and insights from Snoop Dogg, ensuring a unique and engaging Olympic experience.

Introduction

The Thai government is poised to reverse its decision to re-criminalize cannabis, opting instead to legislate marijuana for medical use. This shift marks another significant change in the country’s approach to cannabis regulation and has broad implications for the burgeoning industry and public policy.

Background

In 2022, Thailand became one of the first countries in Asia to decriminalize marijuana. However, this move occurred without a comprehensive legal framework, leading to an unexpected surge in recreational use, cannabis cafes, and retail shops. The rapid expansion raised public concerns about potential abuse and prompted political debate.

Government’s Stance

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, a key figure behind the initial decriminalization, confirmed that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin agreed on the need for legislation. Anutin’s Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest in the ruling coalition, has consistently supported cannabis for health and economic benefits but opposes recreational use.

Policy Details

The new legislation aims to regulate the cannabis industry and prevent recreational use, addressing both public health concerns and the economic potential of the sector. This approach counters previous proposals by Prime Minister Srettha’s Pheu Thai Party to re-criminalize cannabis entirely, which would have made growing, possessing, and consuming it illegal starting January 2025.

Industry Impact

Thailand’s cannabis industry has flourished since decriminalization, with an estimated market value of up to $1.2 billion by 2025. The potential reversal to a regulated framework is seen as a relief to growers, dispensaries, and users who feared a return to stricter controls.

Political Dynamics

The cannabis policy has created tension within the ruling coalition. Srettha’s party has advocated a hard-line stance against drugs, citing concerns over the proliferation of weed dispensaries and recreational use among youths. However, Anutin’s influence and recent political developments, including a new Senate election favoring his party, have shifted the government’s direction towards regulation rather than re-criminalization.

Advocacy and Public Reaction

Advocacy groups like Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future have played a crucial role in opposing re-criminalization. The group has actively protested, including a hunger strike, to ensure the continuation of cannabis decriminalization. Their efforts highlight the significant public support for maintaining legal access to cannabis, at least for medical purposes.

Conclusion

Thailand’s decision to legislate marijuana for medical use and regulate the industry represents a significant policy shift. This move seeks to balance public health concerns with the economic benefits of a thriving cannabis sector. As the government works on the draft bill, stakeholders from various political and public spheres will continue to influence the final outcome, shaping the future of cannabis regulation in Thailand.

Prostate cancer (PC) is a major health concern, being the second most common cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer-associated death among men worldwide. With approximately 1.4 million new cases and 375,000 deaths annually, understanding risk factors and potential protective measures is crucial. Known risk factors for PC include age, African-American ethnicity, and certain genetic markers. However, potential protective factors are less well understood. Recent preclinical studies suggest that cannabinoids, compounds found in cannabis (marijuana), may have anti-tumor properties in PC. This cross-sectional study investigates the association between marijuana use and PC prevalence using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) spanning 2002 to 2020.

Materials and Methods

Data Source

This study utilized NSDUH data from 2002 to 2020, a comprehensive survey administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The NSDUH includes noninstitutionalized persons aged twelve and older across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The survey employs multistage sampling to select household addresses, and interviews are conducted online or in-person. Participants receive $30 for completing the interview.

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

The analysis focused on males aged fifty years or older who self-reported ever having testicular or prostate cancer. Participants below fifty were excluded due to the low incidence of PC in this age group. This age cutoff also minimized misclassification of testicular cancer cases, which are more common in younger men.

Dependent Variable

The primary dependent variable was self-reported PC, determined by asking participants if a medical professional had ever diagnosed them with testicular or prostate cancer.

Independent Variable

Marijuana use was categorized into three groups: current users (used marijuana in the last 30 days), former users (used marijuana but not in the last 30 days), and never users (never used marijuana).

Confounders and Covariates

Potential confounders included tobacco and alcohol use, race/ethnicity, age, education, marital status, military service, urbanicity, income, and insurance status. These factors were considered due to their potential influence on both cancer risk and marijuana use.

Statistical Analyses

Chi-Square tests were used to compare frequencies of independent variables and covariates by PC status. For continuous variables, t-tests were conducted. A stratified Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test assessed the association between marijuana use and PC, controlling for age and race/ethnicity. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for confounders and estimate odds ratios for having PC.

Results

Sample Description

The study included 2503 males aged fifty or older. Most participants were over sixty-five (69%), married (60.9%), had some college education (73%), reported an income over $50,000 (64%), and lived in metropolitan areas (77.8%). Nearly all had some form of medical insurance, and 40% had served in the armed forces. The majority were non-Hispanic white (89.8%), with smaller percentages of non-Hispanic black (4.8%), Hispanic (3.2%), and non-Hispanic others (2.3%).

Prostate Cancer Prevalence

Prostate cancer was reported by 36% of participants. PC prevalence was higher among those aged sixty-five or older (77.2%) compared to those aged fifty to sixty-four (22.8%). Non-Hispanic blacks had the highest PC prevalence (68%), followed by Hispanics (48%), and non-Hispanic whites (33.9%).

Marijuana Use and Prostate Cancer Prevalence

Current and former marijuana users had lower PC prevalence compared to never users (31.7% and 31.6% vs. 39.9%, respectively). In the older age group (≥65), marijuana users had a significantly lower PC prevalence (36.4%) compared to non-users (42.4%). Similar trends were observed in non-Hispanic whites, with lower PC prevalence among users (28.9%) compared to non-users (38.3%).

Multivariable Analyses

Former marijuana users had a significantly lower prevalence of PC compared to never users (OR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.62–0.90, p = 0.001). Current use suggested a reduced prevalence but was not statistically significant (OR = 0.77, 95% CI 0.52–1.14, p = 0.198), likely due to a smaller sample size. As expected, older age and non-Hispanic black ethnicity were associated with higher PC prevalence.

Discussion

The study looked at data from a big national survey and found that people who used marijuana in the past had a lower chance of developing prostate cancer. However, for those currently using marijuana, the results were less clear, possibly because there weren’t enough participants in this group to draw strong conclusions.

The study’s findings align with earlier lab research, which showed that cannabis can help fight prostate cancer. It does this by disrupting the cancer cells’ life cycle, causing them to die, and preventing them from spreading and forming new blood vessels.

In essence, past marijuana use seems to be linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer, and this supports previous studies suggesting that cannabis has properties that can combat cancer.

Higher PC rates in non-Hispanic blacks can be attributed to genetic, healthcare, and socioeconomic factors. Genetic variations and distinct genomic alterations in prostate tumors contribute to more aggressive disease in black individuals. Healthcare disparities, mistrust in the system, and limited access to treatment exacerbate these issues.

The study has limitations, including potential selection bias, the cross-sectional design preventing causal inferences, and the inability to assess dose-dependent effects of marijuana. Despite these limitations, the study strengthens the evidence for a potential protective role of cannabinoids against PC.

Conclusion

This study is the first to investigate the association between marijuana use and PC in a large, national cohort of older males. The findings suggest that former marijuana use is associated with a lower prevalence of PC, providing a basis for future prospective studies to explore the potential anticancer properties of cannabinoids in medical marijuana.

Source: NCBI