News Summary
Students from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas shared their innovative research on cannabis at a recent showcase. Topics included medical applications for epilepsy, insights into the illicit cannabis market in Nevada, and public health implications. Key findings revealed the need for expanded research opportunities and public health initiatives to educate about cannabis use, particularly among youth. Highlights included a focus on synthetic CBD alternatives and the economic impact of the illicit market on tax revenue for education.
Las Vegas, NV – On September 5, students from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) presented their research on various cannabis-related topics at a showcase organized by the UNLV Cannabis Policy Institute. The event highlighted potential cannabis treatments for epilepsy and the economic implications of Nevada’s illicit cannabis market.
The classification of cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level significantly limits research opportunities, restricting access and funding for studies. This was a central theme emphasized by Representative Dina Titus (D-NV), who noted the missed chances to explore the diverse impacts of cannabis, including sociological, economic, psychological, and biological aspects.
Research on Medical Uses of Cannabis
Among the students, Adriana Carrillo focused her research on cannabis sativa and its medical applications. Her findings highlight the compound cannabidiol (CBD), which has the potential to control seizures experienced by epilepsy patients without causing the side effects typically associated with benzodiazepines. Given the federal restrictions on cannabis research, Carrillo developed a synthetic CBD alternative derived from caraway seeds. Preliminary tests suggest this synthetic version may be an effective anticonvulsant.
Illicit Cannabis Market in Nevada
Sophomore Mia Tschan discussed her investigation into Nevada’s illicit cannabis market, which reportedly generates up to $370 million in untaxed revenue. Tschan pointed out a troubling trend: since 2021, cannabis tax revenues—critical for funding K-12 education—have declined while illicit sales have increased. She also mentioned that as of 2022, nearly 16% of Nevada’s youth aged 12 to 17 reported marijuana use, indicating a high prevalence of consumption among young people. Tschan recommended the implementation of informational health campaigns to educate the public about the risks associated with the illicit market and synthetic cannabinoids in an effort to curb youth access to cannabis.
Survey Insights on Cannabis Use
Additionally, graduate student Frankie Nieblas conducted a survey involving 2,806 adults regarding their cannabis use. The survey revealed that approximately 15% of respondents had used cannabis in the past 30 days, with 2.5% qualifying for Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD). Notably, only 3.5% reported daily cannabis use, whereas 71.1% claimed they had never used it. Nieblas constructed a model to analyze the demographic likelihood of cannabis use and susceptibility to CUD, advocating for further research on this issue and suggesting harm reduction strategies.
Call for More Research and Public Health Campaigns
The showcase underscored the pressing need for comprehensive research and public health initiatives aimed at addressing cannabis use among vulnerable populations and youth. Given the ongoing challenges posed by cannabis being classified as a Schedule I drug, access to cannabis-based treatments remains complicated, and funding for extensive research is crucial.
The findings presented at the showcase demonstrate both the therapeutic potentials of cannabis and the economic realities of its illicit market, highlighting significant areas for future exploration and intervention. Both state and federal agencies may need to reconsider cannabis policies to facilitate more robust research and promote public health awareness.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Integrating Cannabis into Nevada’s Gaming Sector
Additional Resources
- The Nevada Independent
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Medical Marijuana Debate
- Reno Gazette Journal
- Cannabis Business Times
- Google Search: Cannabis Research
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