A novel examination of data from upwards of 81,000 individuals utilizing medical marijuana has unveiled that the predominant ailments addressed with this alternative medicine are predominantly pain, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
This investigation utilized patient information from 32 states, procured through the medical service Leafwell, and found that on average, individuals present with multiple qualifying medical ailments.
Patient Profiles and Health Challenges
Published in Population Medicine, this research is a joint venture between Leafwell, the Duke University Medical School, and the University of San Diego’s Center for Cannabis Research. Leafwell’s analysis disclosed that most medical marijuana users are grappling with multifaceted health problems, fostering a need for health strategies that acknowledge a patient’s comprehensive health status.
Statistics indicate that 58.6 percent of the patients were managing multiple health conditions with cannabis, most frequently those experiencing concurrent anxiety and chronic pain. Other commonly reported conditions included insomnia, muscle spasms, and PTSD. Profiling the users of medical marijuana aids healthcare professionals in better addressing patient communication regarding cannabis use, as noted by the researchers.
In terms of demographics, the study revealed nearly equal representation with 51.1 percent male and 48.9 percent female patients. The majority at 71.5 percent were white non-Hispanic, with Black non-Hispanic accounting for 10.4 percent, Hispanic at 8.4 percent, and other races making up 7.1 percent. The age distribution was primarily between 21 to 49 years, with a mean age of 40.
Healthcare and Policy Implications
The insights from the study suggest significant benefits for personalized healthcare, especially in managing mental health and chronic pain through supplementary cannabis treatments. Dr. June Chin, the Chief Medical Officer at Leafwell, noted the potential for economic improvements when cannabis is integrated into healthcare plans, emphasizing a supportive and inclusive work environment that promotes employee well-being and satisfaction.
The research details an emerging trend in medical marijuana’s utilization, with a noticeable shift from previously prevalent conditions such as multiple sclerosis and cancer. This highlights the dynamic nature of state medical marijuana programs and their evolving lists of qualifying conditions.
Federal reports have documented a significant rise, a 610 percent increase since 2016, in the enrollment in medical cannabis programs, underscoring the growing recognition and acceptance of the therapeutic utility of cannabis. The exploration into the demographic profile of medical marijuana patients and their reasons for choosing this therapy underscores the demand for a greater understanding and openness in medical treatments and practices.
