An international survey on the knowledge, aTtitudes and clinical pAtternS of use of medical cannabis for caNcer care: the TASMAN study
Menée par enquête auprès de 179 oncologues ou prestataires de soins palliatifs dans le monde (âge médian : 37 ans), cette étude analyse leurs connaissances et leurs pratiques concernant l'utilisation du cannabis médical pour la gestion des symptômes liés au cancer
Background: Medical cannabis (MC) has gained traction in oncology for managing cancer-related symptoms, but its integration faces challenges due to limited evidence, inconsistent guidelines, and varied legal frameworks. Methods: The TASMAN study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of oncologists and palliative care providers globally regarding MC use in cancer care. A survey of healthcare providers from diverse regions and income levels was conducted. Results: We study included 179 participants (response rate: 51.1%), with an equal gender distribution (49.4% female) and a median age of 37 years. Participants were primarily oncologists (71.5%), practicing in university hospitals (40.2%) or cancer centres (32.4%), with over half from low- and middle-income countries. Most respondents (92.7%) were unaware of clinical guidelines for MC. A proportion of 44.1% were familiar with MC use, 78.8% recognized its role in cancer pain, and 34% identified its role in managing cachexia. Awareness of specific products was low, with only 10% familiar with specific cannabis products. Three-quarters of respondents (84.4%) did not prescribe MC routinely. Legal status and regulations were unclear for most participants; 40% noted cannabis as illegal. MC use and patient requests were more common in high-income countries and the EURO region, with palliative care providers demonstrating the highest awareness and prescription rates. Conclusion: Clearer regulations, standardized guidelines, and targeted education are essential to support the safe integration of MC into oncology and palliative care, ultimately improving the quality of life for cancer patients.