Hannah Deacon, a prominent advocate for medical cannabis, has raised concerns about the increasing number of parents who are resorting to illegal methods to obtain this treatment for their children. Deacon, whose son suffers from a severe form of epilepsy, has been campaigning for access to medical cannabis in the UK.
Despite the legalization of medical cannabis in the UK in 2018, many parents are struggling to access this treatment due to various barriers. As a result, they are left with no choice but to turn to illegal means to obtain the medication their children desperately need.
Deacon believes that the current system for accessing medical cannabis is too bureaucratic and restrictive. She suggests that the process should be made simpler and more accessible to ensure that parents can legally obtain the medication for their children.
The plight of these parents highlights the urgent need for reform in the UK’s medical cannabis regulations. Many children with conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and chronic pain could benefit greatly from medical cannabis treatment. However, the complex bureaucracy and lack of awareness among healthcare professionals often prevent them from accessing it.
Deacon emphasizes the importance of education and training for healthcare professionals to ensure they understand the potential benefits of medical cannabis and can confidently prescribe it when appropriate. She also stresses the need for further research to explore the full potential of medical cannabis in treating various conditions.
Illegal methods of obtaining medical cannabis pose significant risks to both parents and children. The quality and safety of illegal products cannot be guaranteed, potentially putting patients at risk of harmful side effects or ineffective treatment. Additionally, those who resort to illegal means may face legal consequences, further exacerbating the already distressing situation they are in.
Deacon’s advocacy work and call for reform aim to provide a legal and safe route for parents to access medical cannabis for their children. By simplifying the process and increasing awareness among healthcare professionals, more families could benefit from this potentially life-changing treatment.