Community First Health Co-op opened its community education series with a frank and informative session on the benefits and risks of medical marijuana with Dr. Joel Kailia of Community First Medical Clinic.
Dr. Kailia shared his findings from his extensive review of the limited existing research and his desire to know much more to be able to work with the residents of our communities on the use of marijuana as an effective pain medication.
Participants from all walks of life learned valuable information to consider in the use of marijuana. The informal presentation provided the attendees opportunity to clarify the information with many questions.
“The research would suggest that there is indication of benefit for folks with chronic pain, particularly those confronting cancer and MS in conjunction with narcotic and non-narcotic pain medications,” he said.
Dr. Kailia said he would recommend that chemo treatments be a part of the cancer treatment process. However, Dr. Kailia advised against smoking marijuana because of potential damage to the heart and lungs. Vaporization, baking and synthetic cannabinoids are possible ways to reduce this risk.
Dr. Kailia also pointed out that the content of marijuana available in the region is a much higher level of potency than used in the research settings. The decision to use medical marijuana can best be made with your physician weighing your personal risk factors.
Community First Health Co-op’s free education series takes place from noon to 1 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month at 518 Lake Street in the Stoddart Education Room.
If you have a suggestion for an education session to promote well being and increasing the quality of life for residents in our community, let them know at info@healthco-op.ca or drop off in the mail slot of the Health Co-op office.
Dr. Kevin Mackenzie, of Community Chiropractic, will be presenting useful information to support those living with lower back pain on May 9.