Cancer
Understanding Cancer
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What is cancer?
Cancer is a complex and devastating disease that can affect any part of the body, from the brain to the bones. It arises from the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body.
There are more than 100 types of cancer, each with its own unique set of symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options. Despite advances in research and treatment, cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for continued innovation and progress in the field.
The causes of cancer
A number of factors may contribute to the development of cancer, with causes varying vastly from person to person.
Genetics is one of the most significant factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing cancer. Certain genetic mutations can make cells more prone to becoming cancerous, and some people may inherit these mutations from their parents.
Lifestyle choices can also play a significant role in the development of cancer.
Tobacco use is a major cause of cancer, particularly lung cancer. Smoking can damage DNA in cells, leading to mutations that can eventually result in cancer.
Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast, liver, and colorectal cancer.
Unhealthy diets can also increase the risk of cancer. Consuming a diet high in processed foods, red meat, and saturated fats has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancer.
Exposure to radiation is another factor that can increase the risk of cancer. This can include exposure to ionizing radiation, such as X-rays or gamma rays, as well as exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Prolonged exposure to radiation can damage DNA in cells, leading to mutations that can eventually result in cancer.
Viral infections can also contribute to the development of cancer. Certain viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B and C, and Epstein-Barr virus, have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including cervical, liver, and nasopharyngeal cancer.
Cancer is a multifactorial disease that can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, environmental factors, and viral infections. Reducing exposure to known risk factors, adopting healthy lifestyle choices, and getting regular screenings can help lower the risk of developing cancer and improve outcomes for those who do develop the disease.
Symptoms of cancer
The symptoms of cancer can be diverse and non-specific, making it difficult to detect the disease in its early stages. Some symptoms may be mild or intermittent, while others may be severe and persistent. The type and stage of cancer can also affect the nature and severity of symptoms experienced by a patient.
Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of cancer. This is a feeling of tiredness or weakness that is not relieved by rest or sleep. Fatigue can be caused by the cancer itself or by the treatments used to fight it, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Unexplained weight loss is another symptom that can indicate the presence of cancer. This is particularly true for cancers of the digestive system, such as pancreatic cancer, where weight loss can be significant and rapid. Unintentional weight loss can also be a sign of cancer-related malnutrition.
Pain is another symptom that can be associated with cancer. Pain can be caused by the cancer itself or by treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy. Depending on the type of cancer, the location of the pain can vary. For example, pain in the abdomen could be a sign of pancreatic or ovarian cancer, while bone pain could be a sign of bone cancer.
Changes in the skin can also be a sign of cancer. Skin changes can include the appearance of new moles or growths, changes in the size, shape, or colour of existing moles or growths, or the appearance of sores that do not heal. Skin cancer, in particular, can be detected by changes in the appearance of existing moles or the appearance of new growths.
Abnormal bleeding can be a symptom of several types of cancer, including cervical, uterine, or bladder cancer. Unusual bleeding from the rectum or blood in the urine can also indicate the presence of cancer.
Treatment for cancer
Traditional treatment options
Cancer treatments have evolved significantly over the years, and the options available today are numerous and varied. The type and stage of cancer are critical factors in determining the most appropriate treatment.
Surgery is often the first line of treatment for many types of cancer. The aim of surgery is to remove the tumour or as much of it as possible, along with the surrounding tissue. Surgery may also be used to remove lymph nodes to determine if the cancer has spread. While surgery can be highly effective, it may not be an option for some patients, depending on the location or stage of the cancer.
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be given in different ways, including orally, intravenously, or through injection. The drugs used in chemotherapy can be highly toxic, and side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and hair loss are common. However, chemotherapy can be highly effective in shrinking tumours or slowing the growth of cancer cells.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be given externally, using a machine that directs radiation beams at the cancerous area, or internally, using radioactive implants placed inside the body. Radiation therapy can be effective in treating many types of cancer and is often used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.
Targeted therapy is a newer form of cancer treatment that targets specific proteins or genes that contribute to the growth of cancer cells. Targeted therapy can be highly effective and has fewer side effects than chemotherapy, but it is only effective for certain types of cancer.
Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that harnesses the power of the body’s immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy drugs can help stimulate the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy is a promising new treatment option for some types of cancer, but it is not effective for all patients.
Alternative treatment options
There is growing evidence that medicinal cannabis can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments [4].
Medical cannabis may help to reduce pain, nausea, and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. Additionally, cannabis may have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties that could potentially slow the growth and spread of cancer cells [5]. The potential benefits of cannabis for cancer patients extend beyond just alleviating symptoms. Studies suggest that cannabis may also have anti-cancer properties and could potentially be used as a complementary treatment for cancer [9].
More research is needed to fully understand the potential anti-cancer effects of cannabis and its cannabinoids. It is important to note that medicinal cannabis should not be considered a substitute for conventional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. Patients should always consult with their qualified healthcare providers before using medicinal cannabis to manage their symptoms or as a complementary treatment for cancer.
How medicinal cannabis works
Before diving into the pros and cons of using medicinal cannabis, it’s helpful to understand how cannabis works in the body.
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that regulates various physiological processes, including pain, mood, appetite, and sleep. The ECS consists of a network of receptors and enzymes that interact with endocannabinoids, which are naturally occurring compounds in the body that are similar to the cannabinoids found in cannabis.
When cannabis is consumed, the THC and CBD in the plant interact with the ECS in the body. THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and body, producing various effects, including pain relief, relaxation, and altered perception. Conversely, CBD does not bind to cannabinoid receptors but instead interacts with other body receptors involved in inflammation, pain, and mood regulation.
Potential benefits of medical cannabis for cancer
While there is still much research to be done, some studies have shown that medicinal cannabis may have potential benefits in treating certain types of cancer.
A 2014 study found that THC can help induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in glioblastoma multiforme, a type of brain cancer [10]. Another study from 2018 found that CBD can enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy in treating pancreatic cancer [11].
It is important to note that medicinal cannabis should not be used as a substitute for conventional cancer treatments. However, it may be used in conjunction with other treatments to help manage symptoms and potentially enhance their effectiveness, for suitable patients.
*The above studies highlight the potential benefits of medicinal cannabis, but do have some limitations that need to be considered. These limitations may include: a relatively small sample size, use of self-reported data rather than objective measures, and not measuring the long-term effects of cannabis use or exploring the different strains/types of cannabis used, which may have an impact on the observed effects.
Potential side effects
Like any medication, medicinal cannabis can have side effects. While medicinal cannabis may benefit some patients, it is vital to understand the potential risks and side effects. Common side effects of cannabis use include dry mouth, dizziness, and increased heart rate. Some people may also experience anxiety or paranoia. It is also important to note that medicinal cannabis can interact with other medications, so it is essential to talk to your doctor before using cannabis.
Finding the right dose
When using medicinal cannabis, finding the correct dose that provides maximum benefits with minimal side effects is essential. Everyone’s tolerance and sensitivity to cannabis are different, so finding the right dose may take some trial and error.
Working with a healthcare provider who specialises in medicinal cannabis can be helpful in finding the correct dose and product for your specific needs.
The legal status of medicinal cannabis in Australia
In Australia, the use of medicinal cannabis is legal under certain circumstances. In 2021, the Australian government amended its Narcotics Drugs Act to allow for the cultivation and manufacture of medicinal cannabis products for therapeutic use [1].
To access medicinal cannabis in Australia, patients must have a valid prescription from a healthcare provider and obtain their medication from a licensed medicinal supplier. Medicinal cannabis is unavailable over the counter and cannot be legally grown or produced by patients for personal use.
While the legal framework for medicinal cannabis in Australia is still relatively new, there is growing awareness of its therapeutic potential for various medical conditions, including fibromyalgia.
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Medicinal cannabis may have potential benefits in treating certain types of cancer and alleviating symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments, for some patients. However, more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and drawbacks.
If you’re considering using medical cannabis for cancer symptoms or as a complementary treatment, it’s essential to work with a healthcare provider, to better understand your options and to determine if you are a suitable candidate for medical cannabis treatment.
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