(Jamaica Gleaner) – The latest advances in medicinal cannabis research in Jamaica and its potential use in cancer management will come under the microscope today, when a group of international scientists present at the seminar ‘Cutting Edge Advances in Cancer Therapy’ at the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Mona campus.
Scientists with expertise in cannabis research for cancer therapy as well as the treatment of various cancers, including pancreatic and prostate, will present at the function which is slated to start at 9am. There will also be a strong focus on medicinal cannabis as a possible treatment not just for symptoms of cancer but for the disease itself.
Dr Henry Lowe, executive chairman of Bio-Tech R & D Institute, which is hosting the event in partnership with the Faculty of Medical Science, said the information to be shared will be of great interest to persons outside of the medical profession.
“Although this seminar is specifically designed for doctors and other members of the healthcare profession, it is also of special interest and relevance, particularly to students and the public in general. We have ensured that the seminar is internationally based with experts in the field,” he said in a release.
Speakers include international scientists who will share their knowledge on the latest technologies in cancer research, with a strong focus on medicinal cannabis as a possible treatment not just for symptoms of cancer but for the disease itself.
With the increased use of cannabis as a therapeutic agent for cancer patients suffering from the adverse effects of chemotherapy, this event is timely. This as local and international scientists and clinicians have committed to expanding the research and development of novel nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals derived from cannabis.
Scientific and clinical research has shown that cannabis is able to initiate death in cancer cells, and more clinical trials and studies are taking place to validate these claims. It is anticipated that these efforts could help to prove cannabis as an effective treatment for cancer and support improved access by the medical community and their patients.
