Why Isn’t the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) Taught in Medical Schools?

Author: Ondrej Stovicek

Are you wondering when most medical schools will include the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in their curriculum? In 2013, cardiologist Dr. David Allen's preliminary research found that only 13% of medical schools in America mention the ECS. This gap in education raises a critical question: how can future physicians understand the therapeutic potential of hemp for conditions like migraines, seizures, and Crohn's disease if they aren't taught about the ECS?

The Importance of the Endocannabinoid System

The ECS plays a vital role in maintaining homeostasis within the body. It is involved in regulating a variety of physiological and cognitive processes, including mood, appetite, pain-sensation, and memory. Despite its importance, the ECS is often overlooked in medical education.

The Government’s Stance on Hemp and Cancer

Did you know that the US government has known since 1974 that hemp kills cancer cells? Despite this, information about the ECS and its interaction with cannabinoids is not widely taught. One notable study by the University of California, led by Dr. Donald Tashkin, aimed to explore the link between hemp smoking and lung cancer. The findings were surprising: increased marijuana use was not associated with a higher incidence of lung or pharyngeal cancer. In fact, users had a lower risk compared to non-smokers. Tobacco smokers, however, were at a greater risk, with those who smoked both tobacco and marijuana having a slightly lower risk than tobacco-only smokers.

Suppressing the Findings

After Dr. Tashkin’s results were published, the government attempted to discredit the findings. Instead of promoting the study, they highlighted a much smaller study from New Zealand, which had similar findings but with a smaller sample size, making it less impactful. The government misrepresented these results, suggesting that heavy hemp users might be at a greater risk of chronic lung disease, including cancer, compared to tobacco smokers.

In an interview, Dr. Tashkin criticized the New Zealand study’s methodology. He noted, "Some cognitive dissonance is associated with the interpretation of their findings. I think it has to do with the model of faith between investigators and - I wish they were here to defend themselves."

The Call for Change in Medical Education

We must question the narratives that deter the use of cannabis as a medicine. Medical education should be driven by intellectual curiosity, a desire for knowledge, and a commitment to truth and science. It is crucial for medical schools to equip their students with comprehensive knowledge about the ECS to prepare them for the 21st-century healthcare environment.

Conclusion

The exclusion of the ECS from medical education is a significant oversight that must be addressed. Understanding the ECS is essential for future physicians to fully grasp the therapeutic potential of hemp and other cannabinoids. It is time for medical schools to update their curricula and provide students with the tools they need to explore this critical aspect of human physiology.