Poznan University of Medical Science
Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants
POSTER PRESENTER
MEDICINE
Background: Medical cannabis is increasingly recognized as a therapeutic option for managing chronic pain and neurodegenerative disorders. However, its accessibility and public perception remain controversial. While legal frameworks for medical cannabis use have been established in several countries, including Poland, challenges related to public awareness, regulatory restrictions, and societal attitudes persist. Understanding how medical cannabis is perceived by the public is crucial for shaping health policies and improving patient access.
Aims: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and willingness of Poles to use medical cannabis, as well as identify barriers to its accessibility.
Methods: A nationwide quantitative survey was conducted using the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) method on a representative sample of 1,033 Polish adults (aged 18+). Respondents provided insights into their knowledge of medical cannabis, its perceived effectiveness, accessibility, and readiness to use it upon medical recommendation. The surveyed group consisted of 48% males and 52% females. In terms of age distribution, 8.4% of respondents were between 18 and 24 years old, 16.2% fell within the 25-34 age range, 20.3% were aged 35-44, 16.4% belonged to the 45-54 category, 15.5% were between 55 and 64 years old, and those aged 65 and above accounted for 23.2%. Regarding education levels, 35.8% of participants had completed primary or vocational education, 37.4% had secondary education, and 26.8% held a higher education degree. As for place of residence, 40% of respondents lived in rural areas, 32% in small towns, 16% in medium-sized cities, and 12% in large urban centers.
Conclusions: The study reveals a growing acceptance of medical cannabis among the Polish population, despite persistent knowledge gaps and regulatory barriers. Improved education on its medical applications and policy adjustments to facilitate patient access are crucial for optimizing cannabis-based therapies in Poland.
The research was conducted in collaboration with Anita Jeglińska from Dr Max, who is a PhD in the Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials.
Professor Judyta Cielecka-Piontek is a graduate of the Faculty of Chemistry at the University of Adam Mickiewicz and the Faculty of Pharmacy of the Medical University of Karol Marcinkowski (PUMS). She has extensive experience in conducting research in the field of pharmaceutical chemistry and development of medicinal products medical products Since 2018, he has been the manager of the Department of Pharmacognosy and Biomaterials at PUMS. Since 2023, he has also been the head of the Department of Pharmacology and Phytochemistry at the Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants. Currently, Prof. Judyta Cielecka-Piontek conducts research in the field of mechanosynthesis aimed at improving the solubility of active compounds of synthetic and natural origin, focusing on the preparation of innovative delivery systems and the benefits and risks associated with the use of natural compounds, also in the context of the impact on longevity. She is the author of over 170 experimental works on this subject and the manager of projects in the field of basic research and development research. In 2024, she was included in the Word's 2% Scientist's List Stanford University. The results of research carried out by Prof. Judyta Cielecka-Piontek were transferred to industry many times.
ATTENDANCE IS LIMITED. THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE NOT.
