Study Finds High Cannabis Use Associated with Elevated Mortality in Colon Cancer Patients

Recent research from the University of California San Diego School of Medicine has revealed a concerning link between heavy cannabis consumption and increased mortality rates among colon cancer patients. The study, published in the prestigious Annals of Epidemiology, analyzed electronic health records of over 1,000 colon cancer patients treated within the UC system between 2012 and 2024. It found that individuals with a documented history of high cannabis use or cannabis use disorder faced significantly worse outcomes.

Specifically, patients with CUD had a five-year mortality rate of approximately 56%, contrasted with just over 5% in those without such a history. Moreover, those diagnosed with CUD prior to their cancer diagnosis were found to be 24.4 times more likely to die within five years of their diagnosis.

The researchers suggest that heavy cannabis use may impact immune function, mental health, and treatment adherence, all of which are critical factors in cancer outcomes. Lead author Dr. Raphael Cuomo emphasized that, despite some laboratory findings hinting at anti-tumor properties of cannabis compounds, real-world data shows a complex picture that warrants further investigation.

Dr. Cuomo highlighted that heavy cannabis use is often linked with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, which could interfere with a patient's ability to effectively undergo cancer treatment. The study calls for more nuanced research to understand how cannabis interacts with cancer biology and treatment, especially given its increasing social acceptance.

This research underscores the importance of considering substance use histories during cancer treatment planning and highlights the need for healthcare providers to engage in informed discussions about cannabis use with their patients.

Source: medicalxpress.com