By Nicholas D. Bottaro, DO, MHSA, MPH, MBA
The field of oncology is experiencing a transformative era with the integration of medical cannabinoid therapeutics (MCT), marking a new chapter in cancer care. This innovation is underscored by significant research advancements and educational progress, particularly in the areas of pain management for cancer patients and palliative care.
At the forefront of educational advancement in this field is the Master of Science in Medical Cannabinoid Therapeutics program at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM). This program, part of the LECOM School of Health Services Administration, is an innovative educational initiative designed to prepare healthcare professionals for the growing field of cannabinoid therapeutics. The 45-credit-hour program, delivered online for maximum flexibility, is designed for busy working professionals, allowing completion over 24 months with 8-week courses. This curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of medical cannabis policies, organizational management, social and behavioral implications, pharmacokinetics, and the business structures of the medical cannabinoid industry, both in the United States and internationally.
Cannabinoids, derived from the cannabis plant, have shown promise in managing pain and mitigating symptoms associated with cancer and its treatments. Studies in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management have validated the effectiveness of cannabinoids in pain relief, offering a viable alternative to traditional pain medications like opioids (Smith, et al., 2020).
Additionally, research into the anti-tumor properties of cannabinoids, as highlighted in a study in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, points towards new possibilities in cancer treatment (Liu, et al., 2019).
Dr. Henry Lowe’s work at Flavocure Biotech is particularly noteworthy in this context. His team is preparing for phase-one clinical trials of Caflanone, a flavonoid found in a unique Jamaican cannabis strain. This compound, also known as FBL-03G, has demonstrated promising results in pre-clinical studies at Harvard Medical School for treating pancreatic cancer, a notoriously difficult cancer to treat. The progression of Caflanone into clinical trials is a significant step in exploring the potential of cannabis compounds in oncology.
In palliative care, MCT enhances the quality of life for terminal cancer patients by alleviating symptoms such as nausea, appetite loss, and anxiety.
Despite these advances, integrating MCT into mainstream oncology is challenging due to legal and regulatory barriers and societal stigma. However, the growth in cannabinoid research and education, exemplified by LECOM’s M.S. MCT program, indicates a positive trend towards wider acceptance and application in cancer care.
In conclusion, the intersection of oncology and cannabinoid therapeutics signals a new era in cancer treatment. The ongoing research, clinical trials, and specialized educational programs like LECOM’s M.S. MCT are paving the way for innovative and compassionate cancer care approaches.
The LECOM School of Health Services Administration offers four separate master’s degrees and one doctorate program in the field of healthcare administration. More information can be found at https://lecom.edu/school-of-health-services-administration/.
Dr. Nicholas D. Bottaro is Director, Master of Science in Medical Cannabinoid Therapeutics Program, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
References:
- Smith, J.T., et al. (2020). Cannabinoids in the Management of Pain in Cancer Patients: A Review. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management.
- Liu, C., et al. (2019). Cannabinoids and their Therapeutic Implications in Oncology. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology.
