Perceptions and Use of Medical Cannabis in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer

A survey was conducted to evaluate perceptions, use, and information sources of medical cannabis (MC) among patients with head and neck cancer and identify opportunities for providers to clarify its use.

Two hundred eighty-nine consecutive patients with head and neck cancer seen in the radiation oncology department at a single institution in CA (October 2022 to June 2023; November 2023 to January 2024) were screened for eligibility and invited to participate. Surveys were emailed. Demographic/clinical data were collected and recorded from the electronic health record and surveys, including age, gender, race, ethnicity, metastatic status, COVID-19 vaccination status, substance use history, relationship and employment status, and education level. Associations between clinical/socioeconomic factors and perception/use of MC were analyzed using χ 2 tests.

Of 258 eligible patients, 122 completed the survey. Most reported reliance on the internet for MC information (70%); only 20% reported consulting with their cancer treatment team. Most (75%) agreed MC can help reduce cancer-related symptoms. Some agreed or were neutral regarding the potential of MC to cure cancer (37%) or prolong life (61%). Overall, 61% of patients reported having used MC, primarily for recreation (72%) or symptom relief (37%). MC use was more common among white ( P =0.001), unmarried ( P =0.001), and tobacco-using individuals ( P =0.045). COVID-vaccinated individuals more often believed MC reduces symptoms ( P =0.015).

Many patients rely on unregulated sources regarding MC. This highlights the potential for improved provider-patient discussions to support informed decision-making regarding risks, benefits, and questions of MC in cancer care.