Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Medical Cannabis Research Team

    In this section

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    Our goal is to improve the quality of life for people facing cancer. For over a decade, our researchers have been working to set standards for how cannabis and cannabinoids can be taken safely to help manage cancer symptoms and side effects from cancer treatment.1

    Led by faculty and staff from the Department of Supportive Oncology, the team has built a comprehensive research program that incorporates many perspectives, including adults with cancer, their caregivers, clinicians, and cannabis dispensary staff. Dana-Farber researchers conducted a gold-standard clinical trial that explored how 400 mg of oral CBD could ease anxiety, sadness, pain, and nausea in people with cancer. Results were intriguing, and more studies are needed.

    Ilana Braun, MD, interim chief of Dana-Farber’s Supportive Oncology department, co-led the development of the first American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) guidelines on cannabis and cannabinoids. Her team is now working to educate clinicians and guide them in improved cannabis care.

    Dana-Farber is helping to lead research and education on cannabis in cancer care.

    peter-chai-566x487.jpg

    Peter Chai, MD
    Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital

    References

    *Dana-Farber lead researcher’s name appears in bold. 

    1Braun IM, Bohlke K, Abrams DI, Anderson H, Balneaves LG, Bar-Sela G, Bowles DW, Chai PR, Damani A, Gupta A, Hallmeyer S, Subbiah IM, Twelves C, Wallace MS, Roeland EJ. Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Adults With Cancer: ASCO Guideline. J Clin Oncol. 2024 May 1;42(13):1575-1593. doi: 10.1200/JCO.23.02596.