Students Research in Progress
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
08:30 AM–10:00 AM
Abstract
Introduction: With increasing legalization of marijuana, its use has become more common among patients with cancer. There is limited data regarding marijuana use among patients who are candidates for HCT and concerns exist regarding potential drug interactions and pulmonary fungal infections associated with marijuana use in this setting. Data from this study can be used to develop psychoeducational material that HCT providers can use when counseling these patients.
Research Question or Hypothesis: To describe the prevalence, motives, and methods of marijuana use in HCT candidates.
Study Design: Cross-sectional survey study
Methods: Sequential patients scheduled for HCT, aged 18 years and older, were asked to complete a one-time self-administered survey before their pre-HCT pharmacy consultation. Information regarding use of marijuana before and after cancer diagnosis was collected; patients who used marijuana after their cancer diagnosis were asked additional questions regarding frequency, route, reason(s) for use, and how marijuana affected their quality of life.
Results: At the time of this research-in-progress report, 36 patients have completed surveys. Seven (19%) reported marijuana use before their cancer diagnosis: 3 reported recreational use, 3 medical use and 1 both. Eleven (31%) reported marijuana use after their cancer diagnosis. The most common reasons for using marijuana after cancer diagnosis included pain (55%), anxiety (55%), and sleep (45%). Commonly used forms of marijuana were oral and inhaled products. Most patients who used marijuana after their cancer diagnosis indicated that it positively impacted their quality of life.
Conclusion: Approximately 30 should discuss with patients to understand reasons for use and to develop a plan to manage those symptoms based on institutional guidelines. Due to this estimated prevalence and potential harms associated with continued marijuana use, HCT providers should discuss with patients to understand reasons for use and develop a plan to manage those symptoms based on institutional guidelines.
Presenting Author
Kiery Gray B.S. Biomedical SciencesRyluk
Authors
Sabrina Bahadori B.S. Biomedical Sciences
University of South Florida
Hanna Bailey PharmD.
Moffitt Cancer Center
Camrin Kersh B.S. Biomedical Sciences
University of South Florida
Eric Gaskill PharmD.
Moffitt Cancer Center
Rebecca Gonzalez PharmD, BCOP
Moffitt Cancer Center
Gerardo Gutierrez B.S. Microbiology & Cell Science
University of South Florida
Oluwaseun Olajubu B.A. Biology
University of South Florida
Janelle Perkins PharmD.
University of South Florida
Timothy Porter PharmD.
Moffitt Cancer Center
Samantha Price PharmD.
Moffitt Cancer Center
Elizabeth DiMaggio PharmD, BCOP
Moffitt Cancer Center
Rawan Faramand M.D.
Moffitt Cancer Center
Amanda Yepes PharmD.
Moffitt Cancer Center
Brandon Young B.S. Health Services
University of South Florida