Addressing the Gap in Oncology Education: Preparing Doctors for Cannabis-Related Patient Inquiries

Recent research highlights a significant gap in the training of oncology fellows, revealing that most future cancer specialists feel ill-equipped to handle patient questions about medical cannabis. With studies indicating that up to 40% of adults with cancer turn to marijuana to alleviate symptoms such as pain, nausea, and anxiety, patients are increasingly seeking guidance from their healthcare providers. However, a national survey published in the Journal of Cannabis Research, led by investigators at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), shows that many trainees lack comprehensive education on medical cannabis, impacting their confidence and clinical decision-making.

The survey involved 189 oncology fellows across 40 training programs in 25 US states. It found that while some fellows had recommended medical cannabis in the past year, only about 25% had received prior formal training on the subject. Notably, those with previous education were twice as likely to recommend cannabis and held more informed opinions regarding its risks, benefits, and appropriate use cases. This underscores how targeted training can bolster physicians' confidence in engaging with patients on this emerging treatment option.

Lead author Dr. Deepa Rangachari emphasized that as more cancer patients utilize cannabis, clinicians must be prepared to provide evidence-based guidance. Currently, high-quality clinical data is limited, and many trainees lack structured educational resources. The study further reveals that oral ingestion remains the preferred method of administration among trainees, likely due to perceived safety and controllability. Yet, there remains uncertainty about other modes of use, reflecting gaps in awareness and evidence.

The strongest evidence supports cannabis’s role in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, with less clarity on its effectiveness for pain and appetite issues, and virtually none for symptoms like diarrhea. Moreover, potential side effects and drug interactions, especially in patients undergoing immunotherapy, necessitate comprehensive training. As Dr. Kian Tehranchi points out, equipping future oncologists with solid knowledge about cannabis is critical to facilitate shared decision-making and individualize patient care.

Overall, these findings highlight the need to incorporate structured, evidence-based cannabis education into oncology training programs. Improving physician knowledge will enable more confident, informed discussions, ensuring patients receive appropriate guidance aligned with current scientific understanding.

For more detailed information, see the study by Kian Tehranchi and colleagues in the Journal of Cannabis Research (2025). Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-gap-oncology-doctors-unprepared-cannabis.html