Surgical cancer patients’ attitudes and beliefs about cannabis at a midwest comprehensive cancer center

Background Gastrointestinal (GI) cancer and its treatments often cause physical (e.g., pain, weight loss, vomiting) and neuropsychiatric symptoms (e.g., anxiety, poor sleep, depressed mood). Despite increasing availability of cannabis, regional patterns of use among cancer patients remain unclear, and surgeons often lack insight into patient attitudes regarding cannabis for symptom management. Methods Patients with GI cancer were recruited from a Midwest Comprehensive Cancer Center. The cohort included patients who had undergone surgery during treatment. A confidential survey assessed symptoms, cannabis use history, and attitudes toward cannabis for palliation. Survey methods followed the Theory of Planned Behavior, with responses measured using a Likert scale. Results Of the 64 survey respondents, 66% had undergone surgery. Cancer distribution included 25 colorectal cases, 20 pancreatic cases, 8 esophagogastric cases, and 11 other cancer types. Within 30 days of survey completion, severe physical and neuropsychiatric symptoms were reported by 38.9% and 24.1% patients, respectively. Active cannabis use was reported by 19%, with 90% citing symptom relief as the primary motivation. Only half of cannabis users disclosed their use to physicians. Use barriers included cost and accessibility. Among nonusers, 67% were interested in medicinal cannabis. Favorable views of cannabis were reported by 74%, with younger patients reporting significantly increased positive attitudes. Conclusions Cannabis use among cancer patients is common. Most patients believe cannabis improves cancer-related symptoms, yet many do not discuss its use with healthcare providers. Enhanced communication could improve quality of life for patients benefiting from cannabis. Synopsis Cannabis use among gastrointestinal cancer patients is common, with most seeking symptom relief. Despite favorable attitudes, many patients do not disclose use to physicians. Improved communication may enhance quality of life through symptom management.