Cannabinoids are effective in killing pancreatic cancer cells.
The anti-tumor effects of cannabis in the treatment of cancer are being studied the world over. At this point, it’s pretty much indisputable that cannabis encourages apoptosis – the ‘self destruct’ button – in cancer cells and therefore prevents the disease from progressing, and may even put it into remission.
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A study published in 2006 (Spain) shows that cannabis induces apoptosis in pancreatic cancer cells. These results have been backed up by continual research in the field that proves again and again the benefits of cannabis in treating cancer. We know that it can help with the side effects of mainstream medical treatments, particularly the pain and nausea of chemotherapy. Using cannabis while treating for cancer, then, really doesn’t have any downfalls. And now there’s proof that it may help save your life.
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Pancreatic Cancer
The fourth deadliest cancer diagnosis – those are words you never want to here in reference to your own health. It strikes fear and loss in the hearts of even the strongest, and confronting treatments like chemo and radiation can be discouraging. The dangerous part of pancreatic cancer is that there are few symptoms in the early, most treatable, stages.
Pancreatic cancer kills roughly 37,000 Americans each year. Meanwhile in Canada, 1 in 74 men and 1 in 72 women will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in their lifetime.
The pancreas is a gland that is part of the digestive and endocrine systems, responsible for manufacturing and secreting insulin for the regulation of sugar. Is also plays an important role in growth, reproduction, sleep, metabolism, and appetite.
Cancer forms when the cells of the pancreas become abnormal yet continue to grow and do so out of control. This will form a tumor that chokes out healthy, functional cells and negatively impacts the functioning of the pancreas.
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What Does the Research Show?
The research shows that cannabinoids triggers the CB2 receptor in the endocannabinoid system. In doing so, they spark apoptosis, which is cell suicide. This is a good thing. Cell suicide is natural but cancer cells lack the ability to listen to the signals that are telling it to self-destruct. This means they can expand and spread. When it comes to cancer, that’s not what you want.
Cannabinoids, when they trigger the CB2 receptor, ensure that apoptosis takes place in cancer cells. This study dealt with testing the treatment of a large pancreatic tumor using THC versus a synthetic cannabinoid versus placebo. Their findings proved yet again that cannabinoids prevent the growth and spread of cancer and activate apoptosis.
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In particular, they found that pancreatic cancer cells have a larger number of cannabinoid receptors than may also be found in other types of cancer cells. This is good news if you’re using cannabinoids for treatment!
A pancreatic cancer diagnosis is scary, whether it’s for you or a loved one. It can be a difficult time, and one that must be treated with support. Your doctor will be able to advise you through the best options for treatment and support. However, it doesn’t hurt to ask about cannabis if they haven’t already suggested it. Whether you’re suffering from cancer and hoping to aid in treatment, or a loved one needing a bit of calm in the storm, it’s worth the conversation.
