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> Parent topic: Buy Medical Cannabis UK
The history of medical cannabis use
Ancient China, India, and Egypt used medical cannabis. As early as 2737 BCE, Chinese surgeons used cannabis as an anesthetic and painkiller. Cannabis was used in India to treat epilepsy, anxiety, nausea, and spirituality. Cannabis treated glaucoma and inflammation in ancient Egypt. Western medicine prescribed cannabis for pain, muscle spasms, and insomnia in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, synthetic drugs and US prohibitionist attitudes gradually pushed cannabis out of mainstream medicine. Medical cannabis was revived in the 1990s and is now legal in over 30 states and several countries. Due to recreational use and social taboo, medical cannabis use remains stigmatized. With growing scientific evidence and public awareness, medical cannabis use is losing its stigma.
Examples of Perceived Stigma Experienced by Patients Using Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products
- Drug addiction or recreational drug use
- Disapproval from family, friends, and doctors
- Cannabis use preventing employment, education, or housing
- Being mistreated by police or the criminal justice system
- Laziness, unmotivation, or ambition
- “Stoner” or “pothead” stereotypes
- Being considered immoral or uncontrollable
- social stigmatization
- Being seen as a healthcare or social burden
- Negative media coverage or misinformation about cannabis use.
Misconceptions about medical cannabis
Medical cannabis is a controversial topic. Medical cannabis is stigmatized due to misperceptions. Cannabis is often thought of as a recreational drug, and medical users are just high. Cannabis is used recreationally, but it’s also a powerful medicine with therapeutic benefits. Medical cannabis can treat chronic pain, anxiety, depression, epilepsy, and PTSD. . Medical cannabis addiction is another myth. False. Cannabis is habit-forming but not physically addictive like opioids. Medical cannabis can reduce opioid use and dependence, making it a useful tool in fighting the opioid epidemic. Medical cannabis is also considered unsafe and untested. Many studies have shown that cannabis is safe for medical use and has more benefits than risks. Cannabis is safer than painkillers, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs, according to research. It’s important to separate medical cannabis fact from fiction to reduce stigma and ensure that patients who can benefit from it can use it without stigma or barriers.
Social stigma and medical cannabis
. Due to cannabis’s association with illegal drugs, medical cannabis users face social stigma. This marginalizes medical cannabis users. In the early 20th century, propaganda portrayed cannabis as a dangerous drug that caused moral decay and insanity. Despite growing scientific evidence that cannabis can treat a variety of medical conditions, social stigma continues to shape public opinion and government policy. Medical cannabis users may be labeled lazy, unmotivated, or drug addicts, resulting in social isolation and discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare. Thus, medical cannabis users must acknowledge and address the social stigma to ensure safe and effective treatment without judgment or discrimination. Education, outreach, and advocacy can help change negative views of medical cannabis and raise awareness of its therapeutic benefits.
The impact of social stigma on medical cannabis patients
Research conducted in a post-prohibition society has shown that stigma around medical cannabis has a profound impact on patients, particularly those with mental illness. Notably, healthcare officials who have concerns about legal and safety issues may not prescribe medical cannabis for patients for medicinal purposes, thereby limiting access to effective treatment. Similarly, the stigma associated with medical cannabis as a stigmatized medicine leads to shame, guilt, and isolation, affecting patients’ relationships and community acceptance. Findings suggest that even when approved for use by university ethical approval, medical cannabis users are often grouped with illicit drug users, further propagating societal attitudes towards other illicit drugs. The situation is even more pronounced for minority groups, who face additional barriers in accessing cannabis for medical purposes. In the worst cases, this stigma can result in patients being denied care, leaving them without the treatment they require. Given the numerous benefits of medical cannabis, including its potential to replace more harmful drugs, it is crucial to address the stigma around it, through a qualitative research approach, enabling patients to receive effective treatment without the fear of judgment, and the ability to smoke cannabis without facing discrimination.
Medical cannabis laws and stigma
Despite the progress towards a post-prohibition society, we still observe cannabis stigma across healthcare services, especially in regards to the prescription of medical cannabis. In some regions, medical cannabis laws are too restrictive, leading to patients needing to meet a long list of criteria, providing their full medication history and only allowing low-THC cannabis products. Such a situation can limit the therapeutic potential of the plant and undermine efforts towards stigma reduction for medical cannabis use. Even in regions with legalized medical cannabis, users may face drug testing or job loss, perpetuating the stigma that they are unproductive, leading to mental health problems for some. While medical cannabis laws have improved access to this vital medicine for some, we need to reform these laws to create a more compassionate and equitable system for all patients. Eliminating the stigma and misinformation surrounding the use of cannabis for medicinal reasons should be a priority for all healthcare services.
The fight against medical cannabis stigma
“The fight against medical cannabis stigma includes managing stigma among recreational cannabis users and telling medical professionals about the benefits of therapeutic cannabis use. Despite global medical cannabis legalization, there are still some medical cannabis laws that are too restrictive, limiting the plant’s therapeutic potential and public health benefits. Medical cannabis users also face employment discrimination, such as being fired or drug tested in legal states, while the stereotype of cannabis users being lazy and unproductive persists. While medical cannabis laws have expanded access to this vital medicine, they are incomplete until they eliminate cannabis stigma and misinformation among health care providers and the general public.”
Public perception of medical cannabis use
Despite legalization, the public perception of medical cannabis use as a stigmatized medicine remains prevalent. The general population still associates the use of cannabis with negative stereotypes such as laziness and criminality, further perpetuating internalized stigma among medical cannabis patients. This negative attitude toward medical cannabis treatment can cause mistrust, judgment, and discrimination against individuals seeking relief from physical or mental illness. Unfortunately, this ongoing disapproval can also hinder the hiring or enrollment of medical cannabis users, causing social exclusion not only from society but even from family members. Even healthcare providers, including other health professionals, may hesitantly offer medical cannabis treatment due to concerns around their reputation or potential legal ramifications. To overcome this stigma, future research on the qualitative benefits of medical cannabis treatment is needed, as well as educational and awareness campaigns about the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. Addressing this stigma is crucial in improving patient access to medical cannabis and reducing the harm and trauma of cannabis criminalization.
The role of education in reducing medical cannabis stigma
Education reduces medical cannabis stigma. Understanding cannabis science and its medical benefits makes patients using it more respectable. Healthcare professionals, who influence patient perceptions but receive little medical cannabis training, should start this education. Healthcare professionals can educate patients about cannabis’s symptom-relieving effects. The general public, who may still associate cannabis use with crime, needs education too. Education and outreach can dispel medical cannabis myths. Medical cannabis is a treatment for chronic conditions and debilitating symptoms, not a dangerous drug. Understanding this makes people more compassionate and supportive. Education can also help legislators and policymakers regulate and access medical cannabis. The more educated our society is about cannabis, the less stigma there will be and the more patients can get the medicine they need without judgment.
Religious perspectives on medical cannabis
Religious perspectives on medical cannabis consumption are just one facet of the larger societal conversation surrounding the perceived stigma of cannabis use. While some individuals seeking treatment view medical cannabis as a legitimate treatment option, many still view it through the lens of enacted stigma. Some religious individuals take a more holistic approach to healthcare, seeking treatment and viewing cannabis medicines as a viable alternative to traditional clinical medicine. However, those who use cannabis recreationally may encounter conflicting messages from their religious communities about the morality of their consumption. It is important for patients to consult with trusted healthcare professionals, such as Sapphire Medical Clinics, and religious leaders to navigate these complex and varied views. Ultimately, patients should base their medical decisions on their own beliefs, needs, and the statistically significant difference medical cannabis can make under the guidance of their normal medical team.
Medical professionals’ perspectives on medical cannabis use
Research, medical training, and personal experience influence doctors’ views on medical cannabis. Medical cannabis has been shown to treat a variety of conditions, but some doctors are still skeptical. Many doctors and nurses now support medical cannabis use. Despite this changing landscape, many medical settings still stigmatize medical cannabis use, making treatment difficult for patients. Medical professionals must collaborate to educate themselves and their peers about medical cannabis’ potential benefits and advocate for policies that ensure safe and easy access to cannabis-based treatments. Medical professionals can destigmatize medical cannabis use and improve patient outcomes by putting biases aside and focusing on evidence-based medicine.
Detailed Information about stigma around medical cannabis use
| Stigma Around Medical Cannabis Use | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Stigma is society’s disapproval of those who are different. Stigma refers to negative views of medical cannabis users. |
| Historical Context | In the early 20th century, the US began stigmatizing cannabis use, including medical use. Media sensationalism, political propaganda, and moral panic reinforced negative cannabis perceptions. This resulted in laws criminalizing cannabis use, which increased stigma and made medicinal cannabis harder to obtain. |
| Medical Benefits vs. Stigma | Cannabis remains stigmatized despite growing medical evidence. Medical cannabis users are often seen as drug addicts or slackers. Stigma can make treatment difficult, lead to workplace discrimination, and social isolation. Healthcare professionals may also be afraid of stigmatization or losing their licenses if they prescribe medical cannabis. |
| Legalization and Stigma | Even in medical cannabis states, stigma persists. Even though medical cannabis is legal, employers may discriminate against medical cannabis users. The federal government still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug, which reinforces the stigma and hinders medical research. |
| Intersectionality and Stigma | Racism, sexism, and homophobia can exacerbate medical cannabis stigma. Marginalized patients may experience more discrimination and stigma when trying to access medical cannabis. Despite similar cannabis use rates, Black and Hispanic people are more likely to be arrested for cannabis possession. This perpetuates cannabis stereotypes and makes medical cannabis access difficult for these communities. |
| Addressing Stigma | Medical cannabis stigma can be reduced through education. Dispelling cannabis myths can reduce negative attitudes. Advocacy and activism can change public perceptions and influence policymakers to adopt more progressive policies. Educating themselves and their patients about cannabis’ medical benefits and advocating for its legalization and wider access can also reduce stigma. Finally, stigma’s intersectionality must be addressed to create a more equitable and inclusive society. |
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers about stigma around medical cannabis use
Medical cannabis is cannabis used for medicinal purposes. It contains therapeutic cannabinoids. Medical cannabis can be smoked, vaporized, or eaten as edibles, oils, or capsules.
Q: Is UK medical cannabis legal?
A: In 2018, the UK legalized medical cannabis. It is prescription-only and regulated.
Q: Medical cannabis treats what?
A: Medical cannabis treats chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. .
Q: What is UK medical cannabis stigma?
A: The UK’s medical cannabis stigma stems from cannabis’s historical stigma. Cannabis users are often seen as drug addicts or slackers. Stigma can prevent patients from getting treatment and lead to workplace discrimination and social isolation.
Q: How can we reduce UK medical cannabis stigma?
A: UK medical cannabis stigma needs education and advocacy. Dispelling cannabis myths can improve attitudes. . Educating themselves and their patients about cannabis’ medical benefits and advocating for its legalization and wider access can help reduce stigma.
Q: Medical cannabis: safe?
A: Like any medication, medical cannabis has side effects and risks. Medical cannabis is safe under medical supervision. Before using medical cannabis, consult a doctor about risks and benefits.
Q: Will medical cannabis get me high?
A: THC, which gives recreational cannabis its “high,” can be found in medical cannabis. Medical cannabis usually contains more non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD. Healthcare professionals monitor medical cannabis use to ensure safety and efficacy.
Q: How can I discuss medical cannabis with my doctor?
A: Discuss medical cannabis with your doctor. Ask if they understand medical cannabis and its benefits for your condition. . Communicate your medical cannabis interests and concerns. Your doctor can advise you on medical cannabis treatment.
The impact of media on medical cannabis stigma
The media has shaped medical cannabis stigma. For decades, media has portrayed marijuana users as lazy, unmotivated, and untrustworthy. The media has perpetuated these stereotypes despite changing public opinion on cannabis. . Many TV shows and movies portray cannabis use as funny or deviant, further stigmatizing medical cannabis users. These portrayals stigmatize cannabis users and foster a culture of shame and secrecy that makes it hard for patients to get the care they need. Media must accurately and fairly cover medical cannabis use to combat this stigma. The media can help normalize cannabis use by promoting its medical benefits and challenging negative stereotypes.
Employment and medical cannabis use
Employment in a post-prohibition society still poses a challenge for medical cannabis users, as stigma around cannabis use persists. Smoking cannabis, even for medical reasons, raises red flags for many employers who associate it with substance abuse. In fact, participants reported feeling stigmatized and discriminated against in many instances, as employers may request drug testing for cannabis as a condition of employment. This is true even in states where medical cannabis is legal, as the lack of federal protection for medical cannabis users means that other government agencies may not force employers to overlook drug use. For those who rely on medical cannabis to manage their conditions, this creates a difficult situation- one that can lead to having to choose between their health and their livelihood. This can ultimately discourage individuals from seeking out this form of treatment, further perpetuating the stigma around medical cannabis use.
The intersection of race and medical cannabis stigma
Evidence suggests that patients treated with medical cannabis have faced significant stigmatization and discrimination due to their medication history. When it comes to medical cannabis stigma, race has emerged as a key factor in highlighting disparities and inequality. Health Canada has recognized the medicinal use of cannabis, yet the unjust and racist policies surrounding its criminalization have fostered deep mistrust of the medical establishment within Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities. Despite similar usage rates, these groups have long faced higher rates of marijuana possession arrest, incarceration, and sentencing than whites, denying them access and resources. This perpetuates health inequities and widens the already significant health equity gap. Acknowledging the intersection of race and medical cannabis stigma is crucial in addressing these disparities and ensuring equal access to the benefits of medical cannabis.
Health insurance and medical cannabis
Medical cannabis is becoming more accepted and available in many countries, but health insurance providers have lagged behind. Many cannabis users who rely on cannabis medication to manage their medical conditions face numerous hurdles in accessing their medication. Medical cannabis patients must pay for their medicine, which is difficult and expensive. Because cannabis is still classified as an illicit drug in many countries, traditional health insurance plans do not cover it even when prescribed by a doctor. This creates a huge burden on those who rely on cannabis to manage their medical conditions, as they are often left to bear the financial cost themselves. In a post prohibition society, for instance, Canada now reimburses medical cannabis, which is a step in the right direction, but it is still stigmatized by the criminal justice system as well as some insurance providers who view it as no different from recreational cannabis use. This creates issues for both patients and health professionals, who recognize cannabis as a legitimate medicine a qualitative descriptive option. As future research continues to support the effectiveness of cannabis in treating various medical conditions, the healthcare industry and insurance providers must remove these barriers and make cannabis affordable for those who need it.
The medical benefits of cannabis use
Cannabis, despite being a stigmatized medicine, has been used medicinally for centuries, and recent qualitative research investigating its potential has shown it to treat a wide variety of medical conditions. One multidisciplinary group of researchers has found that cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabis compound, has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it an effective treatment for chronic pain conditions like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and fibromyalgia. Moreover, patients with epilepsy have reported reduced seizure activity following CBD therapy. Additionally, THC, another cannabis compound, has been found to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and increase appetite in HIV/AIDS patients. Despite such impressive results, using cannabis for medical purposes is often accompanied by felt stigma. Therefore, it is essential to manage stigma and carry out more research to make cannabis a useful addition to traditional medical treatments for a wide range of conditions.
The side effects of medical cannabis use
Medical cannabis, considered a qualitative descriptive medicine in a post-prohibition society, has many health benefits but also side effects that are often associated with stigma related to its use. Heart rate increases, anxiety or paranoia worsens, and blood pressure drops, which can cause lightheadedness or fainting. These side effects are usually mild and disappear after acclimating to the medication; however, the side effects of medical cannabis depend on dosage and method of consumption. Despite recent legal access and its potential to help with legitimate health conditions, medical cannabis can still negatively impact treatment due to the associated stigma. Therefore, medical cannabis users should report side effects to their doctors. It’s important to remember that higher doses and longer-term use of medical cannabis can cause more severe side effects than recreational use.
Alternative treatments to medical cannabis
Medical cannabis can treat many conditions, but not everyone wants to use it. . Acupuncture has been used for millennia to relieve pain and improve health. Acupuncture balances the body’s systems by inserting thin needles into specific points. Meditation and yoga reduce stress and improve mental health. Turmeric and ginger are also anti-inflammatory and painkillers. Medical cannabis may help some, but it’s not the only option. Talking to a doctor about needs and preferences can help find the right treatment.
Likes and Dislikes about stigma around medical cannabis use
Possible medical cannabis stigma:
Medical cannabis’ stigma may fit with some people’s morals and drug use beliefs.
Some see the stigma as a way to deter recreational cannabis use and its potential harms to society.
Medical cannabis stigma dislikes:
Medical cannabis patients may feel stigmatized for taking a doctor-prescribed drug.
Medical cannabis stigma can spread misinformation and negative stereotypes, preventing access.
Review:
Medical cannabis stigma has pros and cons. Stigma may discourage recreational cannabis use, but it can harm medical cannabis patients and prevent them from accessing potentially beneficial medication. Stigma can also spread misinformation and negative stereotypes about medical cannabis, limiting access and treatment. To ensure that people who could benefit from medical cannabis can use it without fear of discrimination or judgment, medical cannabis stigma must be addressed.
Comparing stigma around medical cannabis use
Since medical cannabis stigma is unique, it is hard to compare its price, features, and quality to other products in its category. We can examine how stigma affects medical cannabis availability and accessibility compared to other medications.
The legal and regulatory framework surrounding medical cannabis production and distribution is to blame, not the stigma.
Medical cannabis can target specific symptoms and conditions, making it a promising treatment option for those who have not found relief with traditional medications. However, the stigma surrounding medical cannabis use can prevent people from accessing this medication and fully exploring its potential benefits.
Medical cannabis is regulated and tested for safety and efficacy.
To ensure that people who could benefit from medical cannabis can use it without judgment, the stigma surrounding it must be addressed. Medical cannabis has its own challenges, but its potential as a treatment option should not be overlooked.
The cost of medical cannabis use
Many people, including those with cancer, multiple sclerosis, and epilepsy, turn to medical cannabis for its therapeutic potential. However, the high cost of medical cannabis can be a deterrent for patients. Despite its effectiveness, most health insurance policies do not cover medical cannabis, leaving certain groups such as the unemployed, elderly, and low-income people in a difficult position. In addition to the cost of the cannabis itself, patients must also pay for doctor’s fees, license and registration fees, and high retail prices. As a result, many who could benefit from medical cannabis cannot afford it. Unlicensed medical cannabis products can also pose serious health risks to patients. A qualitative descriptive study showed that participants believed that cannabis stigma hindered discussions regarding the cost associated with using this stigmatized medicine. Therefore, policymakers, healthcare providers, and society must work together to remove financial barriers and ensure that medical cannabis is accessible to those who need it most, rather than just recreational users. Proper data analysis is necessary to determine the most effective way to address the affordability of medical cannabis for patients.
The future of medical cannabis stigma
Medical cannabis stigma is hopeful but difficult. Medical marijuana has gained acceptance in recent years. Politicians and policymakers are acknowledging cannabis’ medical benefits due to global legalization. However, much work remains. Misinformation is widespread, and a lack of research and scientific evidence is skepticism. Medical cannabis benefits and risks must be educated to the public and healthcare providers. Medical cannabis policies need more research and clinical trials. Medical cannabis users deserve respectful and inclusive language. Medical cannabis discourse must move from stigmatization to kindness, compassion, and empathy. Medical marijuana should be available to everyone without shame or discrimination. Finally, medical marijuana advocates must work with the community to dispel cannabis’s negative stereotypes and stigma.
Intersectionality and medical cannabis stigma
Racism, sexism, homophobia, and ableism are interconnected. Medical cannabis stigma affects different demographics differently, so the intersectionality lens is essential when discussing it. Black and brown communities have been disproportionately arrested and imprisoned for cannabis-related offenses despite similar usage rates as white people. Thus, some communities worry that medical cannabis treatment will result in unjust arrests or drug charges. Women may be judged for seeking alternative treatment because society views them as weak or emotional. LGBTQ+ people may be denied medical cannabis due to discrimination and stigma. Due to disability and cannabis stereotypes, people with disabilities or chronic illnesses who use medical cannabis for pain management may face challenges. Thus, it is crucial to study how stigma affects different groups and work toward a more inclusive and accessible medical cannabis system.
Statistics about stigma around medical cannabis use
In 2019, YouGov found that 18% of Brits opposed medical cannabis legalization. (YouGov)
6,000 UK patients received medical cannabis in December 2021. BusinessCann
Medical Cannabis Clinics found that 73% of patients improved after using medical cannabis in 2021. Medical Cannabis Clinics
Medical cannabis reduced seizures in treatment-resistant epilepsy children in a 2020 British Medical Journal study. (BMJ)
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society found medical cannabis to be a cost-effective chronic pain treatment. ʼ
In 2021, Volteface found that 70% of UK medical cannabis users faced stigma or discrimination. Volteface
Despite UK medical cannabis legalization, access remains difficult. The Health and Social Care Committee reported that the NHS prescribing system is complicated and can cause delays and refusals. (Health and Social Care Committee)
62% of UK residents supported medical cannabis legalization in a 2021 YouGov survey. (YouGov)
Medical Cannabis Network - https://www.medicalcannabis-network.com/
Drug Science - https://drugscience.org.uk/
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) - https://www.nice.org.uk/
Royal Pharmaceutical Society - https://www.rpharms.com/
UK Cannabis Industry Association - https://www.ukcia.org/
Volteface - https://volteface.me/
BusinessCann - https://businesscann.com/
Centre for Medicinal Cannabis - https://thecmcuk.org/
Clear UK - https://clear-uk.org/
Cannabis Patient Advocacy and Support Services (CPASS) - https://www.cannabispatientsupport.com/
