Perceptions and interests of cannabis use among patients with cancer: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Background:

Cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug worldwide. Although evidence for its medicinal use is limited, interest in medicinal cannabis is increasing. There is little understanding of cannabis use and attitudes among patients with cancer.

Aim:

To characterise the perception and practices of patients with cancer towards cannabis use, including information sources, reasons for use, perceived safety and comfort discussing cannabis use with their oncologists.

Design:

Single site, anonymous survey based cross-sectional cohort study.

Setting/Participants:

Adult patients with cancer from a metropolitan hospital were recruited via consecutive sampling from oncology outpatient clinics between November 2020 and November 2021.

Results:

Of 272 respondents (84% response rate), 60% (n = 157) were greater than 61 years of age and 56% (n = 146) identified as male. The principal source of information regarding cannabis use was the internet and media (n = 95; 39%). The main reported reason for interest was to improve the side effects of cancer treatments (n = 135; 71%). Of the 27 cannabis users who responded, 90% perceived cannabis as safe. Among non-cannabis users, 73% (n = 159) were interested in cannabis use. 19% (n = 40) of non-cannabis users did not feel comfortable asking their oncologist about cannabis use and 42% (n = 13) of cannabis users did not inform their oncologists of their use.

Conclusions:

There is great interest and positive attitudes towards cannabis use among patients with cancer. Health professionals should be proactive in discussing cannabis use as patients may seek information about cannabis elsewhere.