Medical Marijuana May Ease Breast Cancer Symptoms

Medical Marijuana May Ease Breast Cancer Symptoms
Medical Marijuana May Ease Breast Cancer Symptoms

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we're highlighting the ways medical marijuana might support breast cancer patients. From easing chemotherapy side effects like nausea and pain to promoting better sleep and reducing anxiety, medical cannabis is becoming a valuable tool for improving the quality of life for those affected by this disease.

As a qualifying condition for medical marijuana in Texas, patients living with Breast Cancer may find relief and comfort during their treatment with medical marijuana. 

How Common is Breast Cancer in Texas? 

Based on statistics from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Texas and is a qualifying condition for a medical marijuana prescription for the Texas Compassionate Use Program. While the statistics can be daunting, advancements in research and treatment options continue to improve outcomes for patients.  

 

Can Medical Cannabis Help Breast Cancer Patients? 

Medical cannabis has emerged as a potential treatment for patients seeking relief from various symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments. 

Between the side effects of the disease, the treatments and the toll it can take on a patient's mental health, studies have shown that the use of medical marijuana may help alleviate some of the symptoms and side effects associated with breast cancer including:  

  • Appetite stimulant - Many patients suffer a loss of appetite from side effects of the disease, as well as the treatments and marijuana is known to stimulate the appetite. Preliminary research shows the cannabinoid CBG as being a well-tolerated appetite stimulant as a treatment for cancer and/or chemotherapy-induced appetite suppression.  
  • Anti-nausea - Chemotherapy may cause debilitating nausea or vomiting and medical cannabis has been shown to help alleviate these symptoms in studies, which allows patients to maintain or improve their quality of life during treatment.
  • Pain relief - Pain is common for many breast cancer patients and medical marijuana offers an alternative way to manage pain without relying on opioids or other traditional pain medications that come with their host of negative side effects.
  • Insomnia - The calming effects of THC may help patients suffering from insomnia caused by cancer symptoms, anxiety and the ability to relieve pain that might typically interrupt sleep cycles.  
  • Anxiety - Breast cancer patients may feel anxious or fearful as a byproduct of the diagnosis, the side effects from the treatment or the symptoms of the disease. Cannabis may offer relief by helping patients feel more comfortable and better equipped to handle the challenges of living with breast cancer. 
Medical Cannabis for Breast Cancer in TexasMedical Cannabis for Breast Cancer in Texas

At Texas Original, we are committed to providing the highest quality medical cannabis to support patients during every step of their journey. Our dedicated team is here to help patients navigate their options, while providing guidance and support every step of the way alongside their prescribing physician.  

We encourage everyone to participate in activities that promote awareness, support research initiatives and honor those impacted by breast cancer all year long. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of patients and families across Texas. 

Resources and Support 

Women aged 45 and above should schedule annual mammograms and breast exams with their physicians, and women in their 20s should start having regular breast exams. Additionally, women should perform monthly self-exams, as changes related to cancer can occur quickly. For more information on how to perform a self-exam go here

If you or someone you know is affected by breast cancer, please know that you are not alone. Numerous resources are available to provide support, information and community: 

  • National Breast Cancer Foundation: Offers educational resources, support programs, and opportunities to get involved in the fight against breast cancer.
  • American Cancer Society: Provides a wealth of information on breast cancer, treatment options, and support services for patients and their families.

Does Breast Cancer Qualify for Medical Marijuana in Texas? 

Breast cancer is a qualifying condition under the Texas Compassionate Use Program. To learn more about Texas Original and to get a prescription for medical cannabis click the button below.  

 

Already have a medical marijuana presciption? Head over here to place an order! 


References

Lu, Hui-Chen, and Ken Mackie. "An Introduction to the Endogenous Cannabinoid System." National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2016, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5021742/. 
 
Texas Cancer Registry: Female Breast Cancer Data Brief, 2024. Texas Department of State Health Services, https://www.dshs.state.tx.us/sites/default/files/tcr/data/screening/2024-Female-Breast-Cancer-Data-Brief.pdf. 
 
Polonyi, Sarah. "How Cannabis May Ease 'Chemo Brain' and Improve Sleep for Cancer Patients." University of Colorado Boulder, 27 Apr. 2023, https://www.colorado.edu/today/2023/04/27/how-cannabis-may-ease-chemo-brain-and-improve-sleep-cancer-patients. 
 
Screening Exams Every Woman Needs. MD Anderson Cancer Center, https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/FOH-women-screening-exams.h11-1589835.html. 
 
Heller, Michael, et al. "The Role of Medical Cannabis in Cancer Treatment: A Comprehensive Review." Journal of Cannabis Research, vol. 5, no. 1, 2024, https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-024-00233-z.