RESEARCH STUDY: MEDICAL MARIJUANA

Public Perceptions on Marijuana Use for Medicinal Purposes

Hassan Monnan

BSc (Honors) Social Studies

University of Essex

South Essex College

2015

Abstract

Many places around the world such as various states in America and the whole of Uruguay have recently legalized medical cannabis or decriminalized the plant. In some places, medical cannabis can be prescribed for medical purposes. Thus, this investigation aimed to evaluate public perceptions of medical cannabis use. The purpose of the current study is to examine patterns in public perceptions and attitudes toward marijuana use among adults, and those that would use it for medical reasons. This dissertation examines medical cannabis/marijuana can help those with serious illnesses such as cancer, HIV AIDS and other various deadly illnesses. Also this paper investigates how medical cannabis is perceived, how marijuana is perceived in general to the public. Subjects' perceptions of cannabis use in general, and medical cannabis use, were largely positive, many of the response that were received were positive, many agreed that marijuana can help people, those that suffered with life threating diseases. Marijuana has many roles in society and it focuses on issues which are related to the general health of citizenry. It also complies with the general statistics about the health issues of the particular areas. In our society people are more conscious about their health and they usually consult with various medical experts for curing the prolonged illness and deadly disease. People follow the prescription mentioned their medical experts and they usually focus on using the latest and modern ways of curing the diseases. One thing is clear that marijuanas potential medical benefits are real and that it is the time national governments consider its production for medical purposes only. However, the legalization is deeply rooted in political differences, which is no good for the medical world.Acknowledgment Contents Page

Chapter 1.0 Introduction5

Chapter 2.0 Literature Review 8

Chapter 3.0 Methodology 15

Chapter 4.0 Results18

Chapter 5.0 Discussion 22

Chapter 6.0 Conclusion 25

Chapter 1Introduction

The medical field has provided a lot of intrigues due to the type of medications that are used to cure certain diseases. The realms of medicine are integral in maintaining the health of people. However, the field has a lot of contradictions due to its known prescriptions of some harmful substances to cure diseases. In particular is the prescription of marijuana for curing several diseases and alleviating symptoms. Also known as cannabis or bhang, marijuana has a long history of use as a medicinal plant in various cultures of the world (Crippa et al, 2009, pp. 517-520). The current debate has been attracted by the outlawing of cannabis use in many countries of the world as a drug. Despite the legal regulations, cannabis still remains a medicinal plant recommended by doctors. Research continues to identify the potential uses of marijuana as a medicine in the reduction of nausea and vomiting feelings among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, people suffering from AIDS and other diseases. Cannabis has been outlawed due to its effects as a mild drug. Anthropologic and botanical evidence has shown that humans have cultivated and consumed cannabis since at least 3000 BCE, and that it was spread widely from end to end trading networks from the Far East in to the Middle East and finally Europe (Rudgley 2000). Moreover, During the ancient times cannabis was used in medieval Islamic world (Lozano, Indalecio, 2001), many Arab physicians made use of the many elements from the marijuana plant, elements such as, diuretic, which promotes the production of urine, and antiemetic which is effective working against nausea and dizziness, also antiepileptic also known as anticonvulsants works against epileptic seizures and furthermore analgesic is a member of drugs used to achieve relief from pain, these are many of the properties that can be found in cannabis, especially from the Sativa strain. Furthermore, genomic studies put forward that semi distinct varieties first had developed from the Vavilovian Centres in China, India and later, in Eastern Europe. This study will be looking at beneficial potential that cannabis has on for a lot of inflammatory disorders and as well diabetes (Pacher 2012), alleviating muscle spasms (Valle 2006), and furthermore as an anti- cancer treatment (Munson et al.2007; Velasco et al.2012); additionally, it gives promising immunological effects (Turner 2010), it suppresses or even reduces several symptoms for those with epilepsy (Gordon and Devinsky, 2001). Cannabis is also known to give euphoria and lowers the overall indicators of mental stress for several personality types (Zablocki et al. 1991), while not discouraging influence on a persons capability to operate a motor vehicle. The aim of explaining and to shed light on many vexing questions surrounding marijuana for medical purposes. The paper is going to look at the point of view and research that supports the use of cannabis for medicinal values. The paper is also going to dwell on the research of medical cannabis and places of interest in terms of the advantages of its use against the arguments that led to cannabis use being illegal (Garvey & Doyle, 2014, pp.2-6).Impact of marijuana:

Because of the marketing demand for curing the deadly diseases nowadays, most of the medical experts believe in the use of marijuana as results obtained from marijuana are thought to be more fruitful and remain for a longer time period. The deadly disease like addition of drugs can be cured by using the marijuana as it has been prescribed by majority of health experts around the globe.Recently, American institute of medicine made an extensive research on the use of marijuana in knowing about the both harmful and fruitful effects. The team conducting research collected many kind of herbs and leaves of various pans and processed them into tabulate form. Finally results showed that patients using marijuana got better results after continuous using it.With the advancement of the technology, it has been seen that medical marijuana sometime has become more complex while sometime it is believed to have been a miracle for other patients. So many contradiction has been made in this regards. But the impact of the medical marijuana is supposed to be more fruitful in the modern era as the results obtained from using the marijuana are longer time period. Thus more concentration is being given to this topic, additionally to look at the arguments and research that supports the use of cannabis for medicinal values.Problem statement:

People strive hard to cure their prolonged illness but despite of fact of using various kind of medicine, they feel not contend rather many complaints are heard on every passing day. So after the arrival of internet, we have seen that people are more acquainted with the marijuana and they sometime prefer to use those medicine made on this. So in the present age, people are not contended with the exact usage and benefits of marijuana for curing their illness.

Rationale of Research:

The rationale of this research proposal was to examine the importance of marijuana for curing the deadly disease and its impact on the health of people when they obtain illness or disease.

The researcher tried to explore the huge relationship between the usage of the marijuana for curing the disease and its prolonged impact on the health of human as it has been believed that usage of marijuana for curing the disease is not fruitful.Research Aims:

The aim of this research was to evaluate the impact of, on the health condition of people and it string association for those people who strongly suggest for curing the deadly illness. So present research was also aimed at knowing the ratio of peoples views on using marijuana for curing certain diseases.Research objectives:

Following objectives were taken into considerations in that research:

To investigate the determinants of marijuana in helping the people for curing their disease

To assess the benefits of marijuana for ailmentsResearch Questions:

How various determinants of marijuana can help people to cure their prolonged illness?

How the impact of marijuana can give maximum relief to the patients after being diagnosed?Research Hypothesis:

H0: What are the perceptions towards marijuana for medicinal purposes?H1: What are the benefits of marijuana, in regards to medicinal reasons? Chapter 2Literature review Scholarly research in criminology about the use and the public opinions of marijuana use goes back to the 1950s, the point at which prosecution of marijuana-related behaviors started to escalate to the current level. A vast amount of information was gathered during the 1960s and 1970s with the advent of the Drug Enforcement Agency and the passage of the Controlled Substance Act of 1970. Public perceptions of marijuana use have faded and flowed throughout the last sixty years to reflect governmental policy and practice. While marijuana itself has undergone a dramatic evolution in strength and availability, the majority of youth opinions about the substance typically fall in line with governmental direction (Monitoring the Future, 2010). In addition to the changing public perceptions about marijuana use, the criminological perceptive of the role of marijuana as a form of deviance also has changed (Room, Fischer, Hall, Leton, & Reuter, 2010). First, marijuana use was viewed as just another form of deviance. Then it became viewed as a gateway to the use of hard drugs; a stepping stone to other more serious forms of deviance. Marijuana has a unique place in society and public policy research. Specifically this thesis will examine: first, the relationship between knowledge of current marijuana laws and peoples opinions of the acceptability of marijuana use; also the views on the role of social learning/peer influence in onset of marijuana use; and the views on whether marijuana is a gateway substance that leads to more serious drug use. For most of American history marijuana had no legal status. One of its plant relatives, hemp, was grown by farmers as a cash crop comparable to cotton in its versatility (Hopkins, 1951). The use of marijuana as a psychoactive substance had a somewhat more limited role in the early part of American history. During the first century plus of the countrys existence alcohol use and production, as well as opiate abuse, were more common societal concerns.

Cannabis is one of the oldest psychotropic drugs known to humanity with cultivation and use noted in archeological discoveries from more than 6,000 years ago (Rudgley, 2000). There are several species of cannabis, the most common being Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. Cannabis contains more than 460 known chemicals, 68 of which are classified as cannabinoids, chemical compounds that are not known to be found in any other plant. One cannabinoid, delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol, was the first cannabinoid to be isolated and is the primary psychoactive ingredient in 14 cannabis. It is commonly referred to as THC. Chemical analysis of cannabinoids has several important functions.It may beused in forensics to determine the geographic source of cannabis samples (ElSohly et al2007).It is useful in strategic breeding and germ plasm programs, for selecting cultivars with specific medicinal or industrial properties (Ranalli, 1999).Cannabis analysis can alsohelp to identify andimprove access to therapeutic strains with specific medicinal compounds and potencies, free from contaminants, and aid in determining appropriate dosages and achieving repeatable therapeutic benefits.And morebroadly, reliablelaboratory testingof cannabishas thepotential to contribute to the scientific and social legitimacy of cannabis as a medicine. Unlike THC, the majority of known cannabinoids has mild to no psychoactive properties and do not lead to intoxication (Hall and Pacula, 2003). Cannabis is most frequently prepared for human consumption from the dried flowers of the plant, commonly referred to in the United States as marijuana. It is usually ingested by smoking but is also consumed orally. As cannabinoids are not water soluble, cannabis preparations are not suitable for injection (Ben Amar, 2006; Hall and Pacula, 2003; Fox Armentano & Tvert, 2009).Smoking cannabis gives fast and effective conveyance of THC to mind. THC can be recognized quickly in plasma after the first puff of a cannabis joint if smoking is the chosen; peak fixations happen inside 10 minutes, then declines to roughly 60% of top by 15 minutes and 20% of top by 30 minutes, on the other hand there can be wide between individual varieties in focuses accomplished. Fast onset and unsurprising rot implies that titration toward oneself of dosing is feasible. According to Iversen (2008, p. 45), medical marijuana or medical cannabis is the use of cannabis, marijuana or bhang and its contents such as cannabinoid for medical purposes in the treatment of diseases or the alleviation of symptoms involved with certain diseases. The marijuana plant popularly known as cannabis or bhang has been used in many cultures of the world for medicinal reasons for many years (Gruenwald, 2004, p. 33). Despite the use of medical cannabis, many people all over the world use the cannabis plants products through smoking or vaporizations to induce a state of hallucination. This non-medical use and the related side effects that include loss of memory and cognition and long-time dependence have forced many world governments to take regulatory measures and illegalize the use of the plant and its products (National Institute on Drug Abuse and Addiction, 2011). The laws illegalize the growth of the plant, smoking of its products or trading in the products without a government license (Aggarwal, Carter, & Sullivan, 2009, pp. 154-159).

However, despite the illegalization, the debate on the use of cannabis for medical purposes has ranged on, with scientific research continuing to detail the benefits of using cannabis for curing diseases and alleviating symptoms. Already, some states in the U.S. have laws that legalize the growing, selling and use of the cannabis plant and its products for medicinal purposes only (Aggarwal, Carter, & Sullivan, 2009, pp. 163). Earleywine (2002, p.3) notes that the infamous Cannabis sativa plant is used in its entirety by human beings. The plant which grows in almost every climate has very few natural pests, and grows quickly. Hemp, a particular strain of the cannabis family of plants was in use for a long time, but differed from the cannabis sativa strain of plant in the contents of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) the active ingredients found in marijuana. The growth of hemp and its varied use dots the history of the world. Hemp was grown for its products like fibers, which was used in making ropes for sailing and for making clothes (Newton, 2013, p.11). Hemp was however dangerous if used for leisure. The hemp plant picked industrial use in countries like Russia and China, where they were widely grown for commercial purposes. The fiber provided by the hemp plant produced some of the finest fabrics in the world prompting ancient governments to impose heavy regulations on their production and sales (Earleywine, 2002, p.7; Robinson, 1996, p.11). Hemp plant also produced food and paper, which has been archeologically proved (Grinspoon et al., 1997, p. 58). The growth of hemp spread from china to Russia and then to Europe. Such was the importance of hemp that entire trade started due to its demand in Europe. However, Europes demand for hemp forced the government to order its American colonies to start growing hemp (Barsky and Tashkin, 1998, pp. 199-203). However, the use of hemp for other reasons than medicinal is not the intention of this paper. While hemp and marijuana debate wrangles on, hemp is still sued as fabric producer in the current world. The research on therapeutic use of marijuana and its related ingredients has attracted a lot of safety concerns for a wide range of affected persons and groups including policy-makers, researchers and regulators among other related groups (News Release, 2006). Wang, et.al (2008, p.1669) contend with the fact that the research on the medical use of marijuana is in its infant stages. This implies that very few effects of cannabis and cannabis-related products are known except the effects of cannabis use for leisure. A research conducted by Wang, et.al (2008) to determine the documentation of research on the medical use of cannabis revealed that there are no clear-cut beneficial effects of use of cannabis. The study observed that the research documentation was biased on the fact that the studies only looked at the short-term medical effects of cannabis use, totally neglecting the long-term effects of the usage of the plants and its associated ingredients. A major observation of the research is that the medical benefits of cannabis have only been partially recorded in controlled clinical trials (DuPont, 1999, pp. 169-171). This implies that there are no direct experiments on the effects of use of cannabis and cannabis-related products on people. Despite this, countries like Canada lead in legalizing the use of cannabis and cannabis-related products for therapeutic uses. Research on the adverse effects of cannabis-related products as medicine has singled out that cannabis use for medicinal value has adverse effects on most of the people who are prescribed to it. However, the rate of adverse effects was only singled out in very few trials that indicate that cannabis has some potential for medicinal value (Wang, et.al, 2008, p. 1676). A study conducted by Amar (2006) highlighted the same potential medical benefits of marijuana and made the same conclusions about clinical research on documentation of medical cannabis research. Amar (2006, p.3) stated that in controlled experiments, cannabinoids were useful in treatment of nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, loss of appetite, pain, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, Tourettes syndrome, epilepsy, glaucoma, Parkinsons disease and dystonia (American Society of Addiction Medicine, 2010). Phillips, Gopaul, & Gibson, et.al, (2010), however found out that children undergoing chemotherapy were responsive for medical cannabis medicine, while in adults it induced a lot of adverts effects like drowsiness. The continued research studies documented, show that cannabis has high potential for medical benefits as compared to the adverse effects that are associated with the use of cannabis. Further, the studies found out that adverse effects were only mild and occurred in small populations of the samples elected. Many studies conclude that the potential for medical cannabis is high, and thus there is a need to conduct more studies on the long-term effects of the drug. The study also concluded that cannabis has no toxicity (Amar, 2006, p.13). One writer of the American Journal of Psychiatry claimed he had clinical experience suggesting marijuana is a viable treatment for alcoholism (Scher, 1971). He also claimed that marijuana and alcohol are mutually exclusive agents arguing that greater use of marijuana is associated with less alcohol use. No other studies on whether marijuana may be associated with decreased alcohol intake have been identified. There is a growing body of research showing marijuana may reduce the negative side effects of various symptoms and signs associated with narcotics use and withdrawal, especially nausea (Todaro, 2012) and headaches (Robbins et al., 2009). Support for the proposition that greater use of marijuana is associated with less use of drugs, such as alcohol, may be important because it opens the possibility that marijuana use may also decrease utilization of other drugs. The research on the medical benefits of marijuana is not a recent phenomenon. As early as 1860, Ohio State Medical Society gave marijuana a clean bill of health as far as medical values and benefits were concerned. In 1980, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the National Academy of Sciences in U.S. was requested to conduct a research to verify the medical benefits of cannabis. The institute found that marijuana had therapeutic potential in several areas (Watson, Benson, Joy, 2000, pp. 548-551). Marijuana was found to act in a different way than other conventional medicines. The study also found out that marijuana was mainly useful in decreasing the intraocular pressure for glaucoma patients, controlling severe nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy, acting as anticonvulsant, relaxing muscles, mitigating spasticity problems among other many therapeutic uses (Mathre, 1993, p.8). The research on the medical use of cannabis and its related products is backed by the fact that marijuana cannot induce death even when taken in high doses. The IOM research concluded that although the known side effects of marijuana were confined to leisure use and abuse of the drug, it would take more than 20,000 times the normal dose to kill a human being, which was an impractical. This points out to the potential benefits of marijuana as a medicinal plant. The problem in cannabis medical use arises from its addictive effects (Mathre, 1993, p.9; Brogelt, Franson, Nussbaum, & Wang, 2013, p.195) Many pro-cannabis medical activists cite that the prohibition of marijuana use in medical context is a political and legal issue rather than a health issue. Bello (2008) argues that marijuana mode of action differentiates it from other types of plants and chemicals that belong to the same group. Further, marijuana has been known to have no toxicity. The therapeutic benefits of marijuana have transcended the harmful effects, making it a safer drug not only for recreational purpose but also for medicinal purposes. Bello (2008, p.23) states that the declaration of marijuana as a therapeutic substance has been hindered and held back by government policies, political dispositions and conservatives who feel that such a declaration would throw the people into marijuana abuse. Scientists have found out that cannabinoid substances in marijuana have the same similarity with certain chemicals in the brain, although the chemicals are different in formation. This has continued to heighten the eligibility of cannabis as a therapeutic substance. Belo (2008) concludes that research into the medical benefits of cannabis should seek to bridge the gap between the old theoretical underpinnings and the new findings about the effects of cannabis. According to Bello (2008), the physical, psychological and spiritual benefits of cannabis override the legal, political and social contexts within which cannabis is defined to date. Despite the illegality of marijuana use, the medicinal value of cannabis has led to people obtaining marijuana from the black market. In 1978, Robert Randall sued the American government for illegalizing the use of marijuana, yet it had proved beneficial for alleviating problems associated with glaucoma. The result was the formation of a compassionate program that allowed patients with severe medical problems that could be cured by marijuana (Amar, 2006, p.2). The research on medical marijuana and its use is supported by vast literature, where many authors argue that the existing prohibition is politically motivated as one way of oppressing the poor who need the natural herb to cure diseases. According to Jacob (2009, p.144) states that history and research has found more than 150 medical uses of cannabis. Marijuana has been known to help in increasing alertness, mental activity, curing blood poisoning, arthritis, contractions during childbirth, anthrax, tetanus, malaria, rabies, beriberi which is a deficit in vitamin B1, and teeth problems, which necessitates legalization of its use and prescription especially in developing countries where some diseases are dangerous (Emmelkamp & Vedel, 2006, p.6). Jacob (2009, p.151) has argued that the medical benefits of marijuana, and the illegalization of its use contravenes the U.S. Constitutional rights guaranteed to the people. Recent research on medical cannabis has also found out that marijuana has potential medical benefits that can be used to cure a lot of diseases as well as alleviating symptoms of some diseases (Joy and Benson, 1999, p54). The report also suggests that the federal governments have no reasons whatsoever to illegalize the use of marijuana for medical purposes. According to Nettles (2013) various controlled researches carried out by reputable institutions like the University of California for Medical Cannabis Research have found out the potential medical benefits and ruled out the possibility of toxicity and adverse negative effects like addiction. Further, many patients prescribed to cannabis due to their medical problems have found it more convenient, effective, non-toxic, and with no adverse effects as compared to other conventional medicines (Egelko, 2014, par.2-5). The Amsterdam Marijuana Seedbank (2014) has also argued in favor of some species of Indica as having potential medical benefits. Research on medical cannabis continues to increase in intensity as many nations and medical organizations push for reforms for the growth and use of marijuana for medical purposes. Despite the illegalization of the use of medical cannabis, reputable institutions like the University of London have continued to grow the Cannabis sativa species for medical purposes. Further, people continue to use marijuana for leisure purposes as well as for medical purposes (Wang et al., 2008, 71-75). All medical researchers point out to the potential medical beneficial effects of cannabis in curing a wide range of diseases. In addition, historical evidence from archaeology or written text has indicated that our forefathers utilized cannabis and cannabinoids for treatment of various diseases. One thing is clear that marijuanas potential medical benefits are real and that it is the time federal governments legalize its production for medical purposes only. However, the legalization is deeply rooted in political differences between conservatives and liberals, which is no good for the medical fraternity (Winterborne, 2008). Chapter 3Methodology3.1 Participants

The quantitative sample was considered through random sampling process. From amongst the population of university students and the general public, 75 individuals were selected through simple random sampling process. In addition, the age of the participants that were selected was irrelevant to this research study. So researcher selected students and other individuals from the public for acquiring information for research. The location was also irrelevant for this dissertation project.

Even though the study sample that was chosen cannot be considered a representative of the initial population of interest regarding the research project, generalizability was the most essential objective. The real motivation behind this research project was to figure out if a particular research subject that was chosen could work in an available or accessible setting. Any impacts or findings apparent in this study can be summed up to the population that have similar characteristics as the sample selected. All participants were assured of confidentiality to ensure that they give truthful answers.

3.2 Equipment

The data has been accumulated from both primary and secondary sources. Cameron (2009) determined that while primary data is original by nature and collected from the chosen sample; the secondary details are basically past studies on the current topic. Both primary and secondary details have been included in order to meet the research objectives. The secondary data detail was collected from: books, journals, articles, website, blogs and past publications. So the researcher does not have to devote money, time, energy, and other resources to this phase of research. Moreover, uses of texts and images will be looked at for data collection, and also documentaries and online surveys. Further, meta-analysis was used for the research investigation; Meta-analysis combines the results of several studies that address a set of related research hypotheses. Hand searching of key journals and checking of the reference lists of papers obtained is also vital. The key terms used to search the database needs to be developed with care. The strategy is written as a sequence of requirements: include papers with specified terms, excluding papers that do not meet certain criteria.

The instructional equipments and materials that were used in the research consisted of first-hand information as well as experiences of the participants regarding the chosen research topic. During the research, subjective ratings were used in measuring the cognitive ability of the participants because they offer powerful measures of the participants subjective experiences as well as encounter regarding the topic of study. This method was particularly used on students because they have little difficulty in assigning numerical values to the choices given. The test material comprised test equipment as well as items for both practical and written tests. Every test item was intended to be objective and was checked as either right or wrong. Each written test had 30 questions. All the equipments used in the study are instruments that are well-known in the research literature on the topic. All of the instruments were presented or administered as a part of a structured interview as well as open-ended questionnaires. 3.3 Procedure

Many books were read to understand about the research subject that was chosen, reading around the topic, also a number of documentaries were observed, this was to understand the views and feelings on cannabis use for medicinal reasons. Many topics were written down on paper, countless sub topics developed, after careful consideration, the subject matter was achieved, discovery of significant literature was essential for literature review, this was done by looking at past studies, considering the strengths and weaknesses of literature was also taken into consideration. Most importantly looking at past research on the chosen topic, understanding particular issues surrounding cannabis use, as well looking at the current issues surrounding cannabis use for a medicinal reason. Process of collecting data was as stated above to look at past research papers that were relevant, for instance published journals on perceptions and benefits that marijuana can have on illnesses were read, also preference of data came into consideration, knowing which data is relevant was key in gaining vital information. Before questionnaires were filled, consent forms were read and signed by all participants, this was for obtaining informed consent and insuring confidentiality of participants, once participants had agreed, questionnaires were given to participants to answer.

3.4 Data analysis

The data analysis plan for both the quantitative and qualitative data was diverse with regards to the present study. The qualitative data being narrative or descriptive by nature was collected and stored in the same manner. As it was not possible to measure or quantify the qualitative responses, it was mentioned in the same manner as collected. However, the quantitative responses was measured thus percentages was allotted to each set of responses. The latter data type was stored via MS Excel and the response calculation was also be done by MS Excel format. Tables were framed based on the calculated percentage of responses. Direct responses from the questionnaires was analyzed.

Chapter 4Results In this section, the results from the questionnaire are presented below, and show the opinions and views on marijuana use for medicinal purposes, also a descriptive study of a meta-analysis of perceptions on marijuana for medicinal purposes. 4.1 Questionnaire Results

Q.1. Recent studies believe that controlled form of Marijuana could help people to cure their prolonged illness. What do you think, if the effects of Marijuana are of any help in order to cure people of their prolonged illness?Frequency Percentage

Strongly disagree11.3

Disagree22.7

Moderately agree1013.3

Agree4154.7

Strongly agree 2128.0

Total 75100.0

The researcher in order to find the response of his required question mailed the questioners. How various determinants of marijuana can help people to cure their prolonged illness receiving has been tabulated above. The researcher found that only 54.7 % of the respondents showed positive response to the question and agreed that marijuana has been helping in curing the prolonged illness and while some respondents gave their response variably which has been tabulated.13.3% were moderately agree with statement and only 1.3% percent strongly disagree with the statement.

Q.2 Marijuana has the ability to calm and relax the mind, and their prolonged used can cause people get addicted to it. Considering the recent studies on Marijuana, its scientific advantages, and disadvantages, and the potential risk involved with its usage, do you think that Marijuana could provide maximum relief to the patients after their being diagnosed of their disease?Frequency percentage

Strongly disagree11.3

Disagree22.7

Moderately agree1114.7

Agree3749.3

Strongly agree2432.0

total75100.0

The researcher in order to find the response of his required question mailed the questioners how the impact of marijuana can give maximum relief to the patients after being diagnosed receiving has been tabulated above. The researcher found that only 32 % of the respondents showed positive response to the question and agreed that marijuana can give maximum relief to the patients after being diagnosed and while some respondents gave their response variably which has been tabulated.14.7% were moderately agree with statement and only 1.3% percent strongly disagree with the statement.Q.3. Marijuana is effective at providing relief to the patients, even if they are suffering from the acute pain is believed by many scientific studies. Considering these studies as base, and using your own perception, what do you think, could Marijuana be helpful for curing or lightening the crucial effects of the deadly diseases on the patients?Frequency Percentage

disagree 33.0

moderately agree1114.7

agree4256.0

strongly agree1925.3

Total75100.0

The researcher in order to find the response of his required question mailed the questioners How the marijuana can be helpful for deadly disease receiving has been tabulated above. The researcher found that only 56 % of respondents showed positive response to the question and agreed that marijuana can be helpful for deadly disease and while some respondents gave their response variably which has been tabulated.14.7% had moderately agreed with the statement and only 3% percent strongly disagree with the statement.Q.4. The controlled form of Marijuana provided in a mediocre form to the patient is very helpful for curing different diseases. It is also believed that Marijuana solely serves as the best medicine that could cure illness, and many diseases. What do you think if Marijuana in its controlled form is the best source of curing the illness and diseases?

Frequency Percentage

strongly disagree11.3

Disagree810.7

moderately agree2229.3

Agree2938.7

strongly agree1520.0

Total75100.0

The researcher in order to find the response of his required question mailed the questioners. The marijuana can be considered as a best source of curing illness and disease receiving has been tabulated above. The researcher found that only 38% of university students and general public showed positive response to the question and agreed that marijuana can be considered as a best source of curing illness and disease and while some respondents gave their response variably which has been tabulated. 29.3% were moderately agree with statement and only 1.3% percent strongly disagree with the statement.

4.2 Meta-analysis results Despite the increase in the prevalence and acceptance of marijuana in the general public, the use of this marijuana has been viewed as aberrant in several contexts. There are current studies which have highlighted the marijuana medical benefits for health conditions that are diverse (Tramer et al. 2001; Ware et al. 2003; Borgelt et al. 2013). However, it has been reported by the researchers as well that the use of marijuana is viewed as aberrant where, those who use marijuana for therapeutic purposes face stigma associated to the use (Hathaway 2004; Ogden 2009; Nunberg et al.2011). The study majorly focused on the meta-analysis of the materials related to the topic of study with the aim of providing conclusive remarks on the perceptions of the marijuana use as well as responses to stigma faced which is associated with marijuana use for medical purposes. Hence, this will give a basis for the development of the strategies that can contribute to the reduction of the stigma as well as supporting the marijuana use for medical purposes. There were six major papers considered in this meta-analysis study and they represented the most relevant evidence for the study topic.

The study by Resko (2014) which aimed at examining the patterns in public adolescents perceptions and attitudes toward marijuana use concluded that the cultural perception of marijuana is that it has a lower level of risk, and both adolescents and adults do not see the need to treat marijuana-related problems. There is need for public awareness about successful treatment options to help adolescents. The method used in the study included computer-assisted telephone interview where, it was used in the data collection. Multinomial logistic regression was employed to investigate the relationship between demographics, member class as well as substance use. It was reported that 22% of the participants have ever used nonmedical prescription drugs other than marijuana.

The study by Cerda et al.2013) on the investigation of the role of macro-level factors, in shaping marijuana use, abuse and reliance concluded that Marijuana use is high in states that have legalized its use. Even so, there is need for future research to determine the relationship between the two factors. The second wave of the national epidemiology survey was used in the study and according to the study findings, it was found that the states with medical marijuana laws, their residence had a higher marijuana use odds ratio of 1.92.The marijuana abuse odds ratio was 1.81. This odds ratios were higher than those of the residence from the states which never had laws related medical marijuana. The study also noted that there was a high prevalence of marijuana use in these states which had laws on medical marijuana (OR: 1.03).

The study undertaken by Petters (2013) aimed at investigating the perceptions about the effects of marijuana, the impact of marijuana in peoples lives, and its reliability as medicine. They concluded that Patients believed that medical marijuana is more effective than codeine but less effective than stronger narcotics like Oxycodone or Morphine. Medical marijuana patients prefer the all natural remedy of medical marijuana. The study data was collected through qualitative interviews where 28 samples of medical marijuana patients were considered. The findings indicated that marijuana use by patients was as a prescription drug replacement.

The study by Huang et al. (2015) reviewed the epidemiologic studies on the possible association of marijuana and cancer. They concluded that large-scale well-designed studies on marijuana use and cancer are necessary. The potential risks conferred by marijuana use, although it may be a moderate risk, needs to be clarified for marijuana users. The findings indicated that studies on neck and head cancer reported increased and decreased risks, probably because there is no association, or because risks differ by human status or geographic differences.

The study undertaken by Eva martin-Sanchez et al. (2009) aimed at assessing the efficacy and harms of cannabis preparations in the management of chronic pain. The study concluded that cannabis treatment is moderately effectual for treatment of chronic pain. Even so, potentially serious harms may offset beneficial effects. The method considered in the study included meta-analysis and systematic review of double blind randomized controlled trials where, the cannabis preparations were compared with the placebo in patients who had chronic pains. An electronic search was made in Medline/Pubmed, Embase, and The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (TRIALS CENTRAL) of all literature published until February 2008, as well as specific web pages devoted to cannabis. The study findings indicated that the efficacy analysis indicated a variation in standardized average in cannabis arm favor of -0.61 (-0.84 to -0.37), that had a statistical homogeneity of: (I2 = 0.0%; P = 0.50). For harms analysis, the Odds Ratios (OR) as well as number required to harm (NNH) were got and include: events associated with alterations to perception, OR: 4.51 (3.056.66), NNH: 7 (69); for events influencing motor function, 3.93 (2.835.47), NNH: 5 (46); for events that changed the function of cognitive, 4.46 (2.378.37), NNH: 8 (612).

The study carried out by Joan et al. (2013) described the users perceptions of and responses to the stigma attached to using CTP. The study concluded that the perceptions on stigma help in the development of strategies aimed at reducing stigma associated with the use of CTP. This can help tackle predicaments faced by those using this medicine. The study considered 23 participants who were under CTP for a range of health problems where, they were involved into the semi-structured interviews. In this case, the analysis of the transcribed data was through the use of an inductive approach as well as comparative strategy. The findings indicated that stigma experience by the participants was associated with the negative views of marijuana as a recreational drug, the sanctions linked to the use of marijuana as well as the cannabis use in the stigmatizing vulnerability context (Anderson et al. 2013)

To understand the manner in which individuals perceive as well as respond to stigma could inform the strategies development that have a major focus on stigma reduction related to the use of marijuana for medical purposes as well as address the challenges faced by those who use such medicine (Deparment of Justice and cole 2011). Marijuana use for medical purposes is considered to be one of the treatments that involve users being stigmatized regardless of their specific illness (Eddy 2010; Seneca 2014). The meta-analysis notes how people using marijuana for medical purposes face stigma as well as the influence on their emotional and physical wellbeing. The study findings suggest an urgent need for determining the appropriate solutions as well as strategies for reducing the stigmatization related to the use of marijuana for medical purposes.

Chapter 5

DiscussionIn our society people are more conscious about their health and they usually consult with various medical experts for curing the prolonged illness and deadly disease. People follow the prescription mentioned their medical experts and they usually focus on using the latest and modern ways of curing the diseases. Rather we have seen some reservations on the issues of suggesting better ailment for diseases. We have also seen that people take much interest in curing their old diseases. According to research, it has been revealed that people are more concerned about the health and they prefer to use marijuana in curing the deadly diseases. So use of marijuana in curing the daises like jaundice kidney issues and other types of diseases is becoming more common and it is giving more benefits to people in enjoying healthy life activities.

Many pro-cannabis medical activists cite that the prohibition of marijuana use in medical context is a political and legal issue rather than a health issue. Bello (2008) argues that marijuana mode of action differentiates it from other types of plants and chemicals that belong to the same group. Further, marijuana has been known to have no toxicity. The therapeutic benefits of marijuana have transcended the harmful effects, making it a safer drug not only for recreational purpose but also for medicinal purposes.

Public health has become a burning issue and all protective measures are taken from ensuring the sufficient funds for the promotion of public health in society. Public health is assumed to be in charge for health safety, health enhancement and health inequalities issues all over the world.

The physical, psychological and spiritual benefits of cannabis override the legal, political and social contexts within which cannabis is defined to date. Despite the illegality of marijuana use, the medicinal value of cannabis has led to people obtaining marijuana from the black market. In 1978, Robert Randall sued the American government for illegalizing the use of marijuana, yet it had proved beneficial for alleviating problems associated with glaucoma. The result was the formation of a compassionate program that allowed patients with severe medical problems that could be cured by marijuana. The research on medical marijuana and its use is supported by vast literature, where many authors argue that the existing prohibition is politically motivated as one way of oppressing the poor who need the natural herb to cure diseases

Marijuana has many roles in society and it focuses on issues which are related to the general health of citizenry. It also complies with the general statistics about the health issues of the particular areas. This is also responsible for promoting and protecting the health of people within the society and community when it is suggested. People strongly rely on it for the prevention of any disease which are considered to be more dangerous which is thought to have bad impact on health. The department of health also organizes such awareness program about minor injuries, sickness, death and disability in society

So in case of health care plan, some medical experts give suggestion their patients to use marijuana

Experts workforce must be ready for using the skills and abilities in order to implement the various elements of the plan

There must be sufficient time and resources for the project to be completed in time.

Strong communication should be made among all involved stakeholders when the project is going on

Implementing of latest technology must be used during the project

It must ensure that people involved in the project are to be motivated and comfortable.

We see that people must some medical staff like doctors, nurses and other paramedics staff who can facilitate the ailing community timely and can meet the projects requirements. They ensure that selected are more ambitious and passionate in completing the assigned tasks and assignments despite of the fact of any kind of circumstances at workplaces.

According to Jacob (2009), Marijuana has been known to help in increasing alertness, mental activity, and curing blood poisoning, and arthritis, contractions during childbirth, anthrax, tetanus, malaria, rabies, beriberi, and teeth problems, which necessitates legalization of its use and prescription especially in developing countries where some diseases are dangerous. Recent research on medical cannabis has also found out that marijuana has potential medical benefits that can be used to cure a lot of diseases as well as alleviating symptoms of some or many diseases. The report also suggests that the federal governments have no reasons whatsoever to illegalize the use of marijuana for medical purposes. Despite the illegalization of the use of medical cannabis, reputable institutions like the University of London have continued to grow the Cannabis sativa species for medical purposes. Further, people continue to use marijuana for leisure purposes as well as for medical purposes. All medical researchers point out to the potential medical beneficial effects of cannabis in curing a wide range of diseases. In addition, historical evidence from archaeology or written text has indicated that our forefathers utilized cannabis and cannabinoids for treatment of various diseases. One thing is clear that marijuanas potential medical benefits are real and that it is the time state governments decriminalize its production for medical purposes only. However, the legalization is deeply rooted in political differences between conservatives and liberals, which is no good for the medical fraternity.

Chapter 6

Conclusion In society developing the strategy for any disease to be controlled, some department like Health and National health services make sometime proactive strategies for preventing the most deadly diseases. For example, recently, department of Health made the Meningitis C campaign and it aimed at providing the immunization services to people in society specially the younger generation living in UK. This promotion was implemented for those younger people who were suppose to be under the age of 18 years. Thus in November 1999, Department of Health in UK initiated the plan for controlling the disease and introduction of immunization of vaccine to children of two to three month of age were selected and in the someway, department of health also started to make polio vaccines for adolescent between 15 to 17 years of age. Thus this campaign was more fruitful as more than 13 million of children were immunized with the support of medical professional in UK.

Second strategy was enforced by National health services that also protect people being fallen in the meningitis C disease in UK. The entire plan of the campaign was to make awareness among general masses about the promotion of vaccines against the diseases like Meningitis.

Because of the promotion campaign, NHS also encouraged parents to take immunization for their children against the deadly disease (White, 2006). So people can use immune system which can easily create antibodies to annihilate the virus. Children must be admitted to hospital until the viral is indentified. Once the finding of viral meningitis is complete antibiotics must be stopped and child must be sent to home who is recuperating satisfactory. Second priority is that when the viral is found in children, he/she must be given acetaminophen which reduces the fevers (Wooldridge and Floyd, 2010). Children must be given a clear diet food and complete rest should be provided to child. So parents should follow some precautionary measures like bright lights, noise and arrival of gusts must be stopped which irritate children. Increased anxiety on the brain from build-up of fluid in the meningitis is a severe problem.

Organizations like the NHS and others can also meet failures in the implementation phase because of the following reasons that can have the adverse effect on the performance of the organization:

Poor communication among all involved stakeholders

If the plan to be non-specific and insubstantial

Under some unforeseen incidents, organization also faces huge failures in completing the project and sometime the entire blame is assumed to be nonprofessional attitude. If we look at the context of the NHS and other organization, we see that if the plan for executing the vaccination in order to overcome on meningitis is failed due to non-cooperation of paramedics staff, then organization cannot be held responsible for this. So it can be said the sole responsibility of staff to be held accountable for the failure of the project. The need to obtain the project to be more successful is that organization like NHS must engage all its internal stakeholders for vaccinating the people who are under age of 18 and so on.

The NHS must assess its oil resources and in the light of the availability of all resources, it must design its plan about the vaccination of children in order to prevent from deadly diseases.

Therefore, it is imperative for the people and Department of Health to take a coordinated process which will make the best use of available resources for presenting its plan to the public for using marijuana and it would also help to achieve its desired objectives in health. Thus, strategic planning tools for analysis the present plan would help to achieve the desired objectives with the collaboration of both internal and external stakeholders.

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Author/sAims Methods Results Conclusion

Stella M. Resko

This study aims to examine patterns in public perceptions and attitudes toward marijuana use among adolescents.The methods used in the study is computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) to collect data from a statewide sample of adults in Michigan identified through random-digit dialing (n = 560). CATI interviews were supplemented with web- and paper-based surveys for no respondents. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between class membership and demographics, substance use, and methodological factors. More than half the sample (54%) reported recent (past 30 day) alcohol use, while only 6% reported recent (past 30 day) marijuana use. Almost a quarter of participants in the sample (22%) reported that they have used nonmedical prescription drugs or illicit drugs other than marijuana in their lifetimes.The cultural perception of marijuana is that it has a lower level of risk, and both adolescents and adults do not see the need to treat marijuana-related problems. There is need for public about successful treatment options to help adolescents.

Magdalena Cerda, Melanie Wall, Katherine M Keyes, Sandro Galea, and Deborah HasinTo test the role of macro-level factors, in shaping marijuana use, abuse and relianceThe study used the second wave of the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC), a national survey of adults aged 18+ (n=34,653). Selected analyses were replicated using the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), a yearly survey of ~68,000 individuals aged 12+. In NESARC, residents of states with medical marijuana laws had higher odds of marijuana use (OR: 1.92; 95% CI: 1.49-2.47) and marijuana abuse/dependence (OR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.22-2.67) than residents of states without such laws. There was a higher prevalence among marijuana users in these states (OR: 1.03; 95% CI: 0.67-1.60).Marijuana use is high in states that have legalized its use. Even so, there is need for future research to determine the relationship between the two factors.

David C. Peters IIThe aim is to investigate perceptions about the effects of marijuana, the impact of marijuana in peoples lives, and its reliability as medicine.The researchers collected data through qualitative interviews using a convenience and snowball sample of 28 medical marijuana patients and producers in Michigan.

19 were regular patients and 9 were producers or Caregivers under Michigan law. Patients use marijuana as a replacement of prescription drugs. All patients and producers who were taking opiate painkillers claimed they reduced overall drug use through medical marijuana. Patients believe that medical marijuana is more effective than codeine but less effective than stronger narcotics like Oxycodone or Morphine. Medical marijuana patients prefer the all natural remedy of medical marijuana.

Yu-Hui Jenny Huang, Zuo-Feng Zhang, Donald P. Tashkin, Bingjian Feng, Kurt Straif, and Mia Hashibe.

The objective is to review the epidemiologic studies on the possible association of marijuana and cancer.The study identified 34 epidemiologic studies on upper aero digestive tract cancers (n 11), lung cancer (n 6), testicular cancer (n3), childhood cancers (n6), all cancers (n1), anal cancer (n 1), penile cancer (n 1), non-Hodgkin lymphoma

(n 2), malignant primary gliomas (n 1), bladder cancer (n 1), and Kaposi sarcoma (n 1).Studies on head and neck cancer reported increased and decreased risks, possibly because there is no association, or because risks differ by human status or geographic differences.

Large-scale well-designed studies on marijuana use and cancer are necessary. The potential risks conferred by marijuana use, although it may be a moderate risk, needs to be clarified for marijuana users.

Eva Martin-Sanchez, Toshiaki A. Furukawa, Julian Taylor, and Jose Luis Martin

To assess the efficacy and harms of cannabis preparations in the management of chronic pain.Systematic review and meta-analysis of double-blind randomized controlled trials that compared any cannabis preparation to placebo among subjects with chronic pain. An electronic search was made in Medline/Pubmed, Embase, and The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (TRIALS CENTRAL) of all literature published until February 2008, as well as specific web pages devoted to cannabis. The efficacy analysis (visual analog scales) displayed a difference in standardized means in favor of the cannabis arm of -0.61 (-0.84 to -0.37), with statistical homogeneity (I2 = 0.0%; P = 0.50). For the analysis of harms, the following Odds Ratios (OR) and number needed to harm (NNH) were obtained: for events linked to alterations to perception, OR:

4.51 (3.056.66), NNH: 7 (69); for events affecting motor function, 3.93 (2.835.47), NNH: 5 (46); for events that altered cognitive function, 4.46 (2.378.37), NNH: 8 (612).Cannabis treatment is moderately effectual for treatment of chronic pain. Even so, potentially serious harms may offset beneficial effects.

Joan Bottorff,

Laura JL Bissell,

Lynda Balneaves,

John L Oliffe,

Rielle Capler,

Jane BuxtonThe study describes users perceptions of and responses to the stigma attached to using CTP.Twenty-three individuals who were using CTP for a range of health problems took part in semi-structured interviews. Transcribed data were analyzed using an inductive approach and comparative strategies.Participant experiences of stigma were related to negative views of cannabis as a recreational drug, the sanctions associated with cannabis use, and use of cannabis in the context of stigmatizing vulnerability.The perceptions on stigma help in the development of strategies aimed at reducing stigma associated with the use of CTP. This can help tackle predicaments faced by those using this medicine.

Questionnaire