Medicinal Cannabis - Cancer – a curative approach – where to beyond symptom relief

This course, Medicinal Cannabis - Cancer: A Curative Approach, offers an in-depth exploration of the role of cannabinoids in modern oncology. It covers evidence-based approaches to leveraging cannabis not only for symptom relief but as a potential curative aid in cancer treatment. Here's what each unit includes:

Unit 1: Introduction to Cancer and Treatment Evolution
Understand the history of cancer research, from ancient treatments to modern chemotherapy advancements. Explore the hallmarks of cancer, including genetic instability, metastasis, and targeted therapies. This foundational unit provides insights into cancer's biological complexities and prepares learners to explore novel treatments.

Unit 2: Breast Cancer - Molecular Insights and Therapies
Dive into the molecular etiology of breast cancer, including BRCA1 and TP53 mutations. This unit covers the challenges of metastasis, the classification of cancer subtypes, and current therapies like hormone treatments and chemotherapy. Learn how cannabinoids like THC and CBD influence breast cancer progression and alleviate symptoms such as pain and inflammation.

Unit 3: Pharmacology of Cannabis
Explore the pharmacological properties of cannabis and its interaction with the endocannabinoid system. This unit explains the roles of key cannabinoids—THC and CBD—and their receptors, highlighting their anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and pain-relieving properties. You'll also learn about synthetic cannabinoids and their therapeutic potential in oncology.

Unit 4: Pain Management in Oncology
Examine the challenges of pain management in cancer care, including opioid dependency and tolerance. This unit discusses the analgesic properties of cannabinoids, their role in reducing neuropathic pain, and their potential as an adjuvant therapy to lower opioid use. Administration methods, bioavailability, and patient outcomes are also explored.

Unit 5: Pancreatic Cancer - Challenges and Innovations
Focus on pancreatic cancer, one of the most aggressive cancer types with low survival rates. This unit explores the genetic and metabolic characteristics of pancreatic cancer, the protective role of desmoplastic stroma, and innovative treatments. It emphasises the promising role of cannabinoids in enhancing chemotherapy efficacy and targeting tumor growth.

Unit 6: Cannabinoids in Clinical Practice
This unit synthesises knowledge about cannabinoids, their mechanisms, and their clinical applications. You'll learn about challenges in cannabinoid-based therapies, such as dosage, psychoactivity, and delivery systems. The unit concludes with strategies for integrating cannabinoids into holistic cancer care, improving patient quality of life, and enhancing treatment outcomes.

This course equips healthcare professionals with the tools and confidence to incorporate medicinal cannabis into patient care effectively.