A new study from Minnesota has added weight to the argument that medical marijuana offers real relief to cancer patients. Researchers found that patients using cannabis reported major improvements in their symptoms, but the high cost remains a barrier for many.
Cancer Patients See Noticeable Symptom Relief
For many cancer patients, pain, nausea, and loss of appetite are daily struggles. According to this latest study, cannabis is making a difference.
Researchers analyzed survey responses from 220 cancer patients enrolled in the Minnesota Medical Cannabis Program. The vast majority said they experienced symptom relief after using marijuana. Whether it was easing pain, helping with sleep, or improving appetite, cannabis appeared to provide meaningful benefits.
One of the biggest takeaways? The improvements weren’t minor. Patients described the changes as “significant,” reinforcing earlier studies that have pointed to marijuana’s potential in palliative care.
Financial Struggles Limit Access to Cannabis
Not everyone who needs medical marijuana can afford it. The study found a concerning trend: patients who weren’t financially stable had a harder time maintaining their cannabis treatment.
- Those who weren’t living comfortably on their income spent more out-of-pocket on cannabis.
- Many in this group either reduced their cannabis use or stopped it entirely due to cost.
- The financial burden was one of the main reasons for disruptions in treatment.
Affordability has long been a challenge in medical cannabis programs across the U.S. Unlike traditional prescription medications, insurance does not cover marijuana in most cases. That means patients are left to pay out-of-pocket, which can add up quickly—especially for those already dealing with high medical bills.
Why Cannabis Costs So Much
Medical marijuana prices vary widely by state, but Minnesota’s program is particularly expensive. That’s because it operates under a limited-license model, meaning fewer growers and dispensaries control the market. Less competition often leads to higher prices.
Other factors also contribute to the high cost:
- State regulations require medical cannabis to be sold in specific formulations, often leading to higher production expenses.
- Federal restrictions prevent insurance companies from covering cannabis, making it an out-of-pocket expense for patients.
- Taxes and licensing fees drive up the overall price, even in medical programs.
For low-income patients, these costs can be overwhelming, forcing them to cut back or seek alternative treatments that may not be as effective.
What’s Next for Medical Marijuana Affordability?
Minnesota lawmakers have discussed expanding cannabis access and affordability, but challenges remain. The high cost is an issue not just in Minnesota but across the country. While some states have attempted to lower prices through expanded licensing and competition, federal prohibition continues to complicate things.
One possible solution? Expanding financial assistance programs. Some states have proposed programs that would offer reduced-cost medical cannabis for qualifying low-income patients. Others are pushing for insurance companies to step in and provide coverage for cannabis-based treatments.
Without changes, many cancer patients who could benefit from marijuana may find it out of reach.
