{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/canada/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2700-markdown","title":"The International Community Leads the Way on Cannabis Research ","slug":"the-international-community-leads-the-way-on-cannabis-research","content":"Despite the wave of [marijuana legalization slowly spreading across the United States](http://www.businessinsider.com/legal-marijuana-states-2018-1), federal prohibition still prevents substantive medical research. Until cannabis is federally legal, two things will continue to happen: Scientists based in the U.S. won’t have access to clean, regulated cannabis on which to perform any studies. And the regulatory agencies who support and validate medical research in the States can’t recognize cannabis as a medical option. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nWhile self-experimentation has become a cultural rite of passage for marijuana, it’s a problematic situation for serious medical patients. More and more Americans are finding relief from a range of medical conditions with cannabis.\n\nBut patients with debilitating and life-threatening diseases along with their doctors desperately want to see substantive research. This means peer-reviewed clinical studies, not just small sample, self-reported data or anecdotal stories.\n\nIn the absence of FDA-backed studies, many other countries have taken up the mantle, particularly Israel, Canada, Australia, Greece and Spain. Researchers in these countries are helping to progress the scientific understanding of cannabis as medicine for the international community. \n\nRELATED: [BALTIMORE RAVENS PLAYER DONATES TO MARIJUANA RESEARCH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/573e2b607a1e17000800009b/baltimore-ravens-player-donates-to-marijuana-research)\n\n### Countries Leading Medical Research on Cannabis: Israel, Canada & Australia\n\n #### Marijuana Research Started in Israel\n\nIsrael is considered by many to be the world leader in cannabis research. Knowledge of the plant is rooted in the nation’s cultural history, where it’s been reputedly used for thousands of years. \n\nIn 1964, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam isolated the first cannabinoid, which we know well today as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Twenty years later, Dr. Mechoulam was the first researcher to identify the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a crucial development in understanding how cannabis interacts with the brain and the body. \n\nOften referred to as the father of marijuana research, Dr. Mechoulam is a Holocaust survivor who immigrated to Israel from Bulgaria. He undertook several of his key studies on marijuana while working as a researcher at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Rehovot.\n\nWhile there, Dr. Mechoulam procured hashish from Israel’s Ministry of Health to use in his studies. Continuing his career at Hebrew University, where less stringent bureaucratic regulations allowed research to flourish, Dr. Mechoulam has led the world in marijuana research for over 50 years. \n\nIn 2015, filmmaker Zach Klein partnered with the Spanish research foundation, Fundación CANNA, to make [_The Scientist_](http://mechoulamthescientist.com/making-of/), a documentary about Dr. Mechoulam’s life work. In describing the making of _The Scientist_ on their website, the filmmakers write, “Mechoulam has been investigating this compound [cannabis] longer and more thoughtfully than any other scientist. He has unearthed cannabis’s role in treating seizure disorders, schizophrenia and PTSD.” \n\nDr. Mechoulam’s early and important research helped set a precedent for Israel’s progressive regulatory climate for medicinal marijuana research. While recreational marijuana is still illegal in Israel, it was one of the first countries to legalize medicinal-use cannabis in the early 1990s. \n\nToday, 27% of Israelis are marijuana consumers—the highest ratio of users in the world. And registered patients use government-sanctioned cannabis to treat PTSD, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, cancer and chronic pain. \n\n_Tikun Olam_ is a Hebrew phrase that translates to “repair the world.” It’s also the name of an Israeli cannabis brand established as a nonprofit in 2005. Today, Tikun Olam is a global leader in research and development and has developed 230 different cannabis strains to treat specific symptoms and diseases. Claiming to be the only scientifically backed cannabis brand in the United States, [the company’s U.S. website](http://tikunolamusa.com/research/) is a useful resource for published studies on consuming cannabis for a number of chronic diseases.  \n\n #### Canada’s Doctors Agree That Marijuana Research Is Lacking\n\nAfter federally legalizing medical marijuana in 2001, Canada is [widely expected to legalize recreational use marijuana](https://globalnews.ca/news/4102503/government-plans-to-legalize-pot-are-on-track-for-end-of-summer/) some time this year. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau campaigned on the promise of cannabis legalization, and despite recent setbacks from conservative factions of the Canadian government, investors and businesses are gearing up for a robust new industry. \n\nAccording to a study published in the _Canadian Family Physician Journal_ in February, a group of Canadian doctors found that research on medicinal cannabis is profoundly lacking. In the article, _Canadian Family Physician Journal_ editors write, “[Although cannabinoids have been promoted for an array of medical conditions, the evidence base is challenged](http://www.cfp.ca/content/64/2/111) by bias and a lack of high-level research. Two large evidence synopses suggested that only three conditions have an adequate volume of evidence to inform prescribing recommendations: chronic pain, nausea and vomiting, and spasticity.” \n\nIn the same issue, an editorial piece titled, “The Cannabis Paradox” by Roger Ladouceur, argues that the rising prevalence of cannabis consumption in Canada—with an estimated 3.4 million consumers—calls for further research to be conducted. Meanwhile, Health Canada data report that [Canadians registering for medical marijuana have tripled every year since 2015](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a7ddbcaf24d1300077ccb3e/why-are-medical-marijuana-patient-registrations-on-the-rise). \n\nIn a positive step, earlier this year the Canadian government [pledged $1.4 million towards research into the health and societal impacts of marijuana legalization](https://globalnews.ca/news/3984777/marijuana-research-projects-federal-funding/). At least the government acknowledges the importance of sound scientific data when it comes to cannabis and how it impacts its citizens. \n\n#### Australia’s New to the Industry, But Sees the Importance of Cannabis Research\n\nIn 2017, the Australian government announced that it would award the [Australian Centre for Cannabinoid Clinical and Research Excellence](https://www.australiancannabinoidresearch.com.au) (ACRE) a 2.5 million dollar grant to coordinate research on medical cannabis. The first federally funded research institution on medical cannabis in Australia, ACRE has brought together a team of over 20 leading researchers in the fields of pharmacology, clinical psychology, plant science, public health and economics to lead the center. \n\nIn a story published by Australia’s ABC News, ACRE’s head doctor, [Professor Nadia Solowij, explains the need for research in a nation where cannabis use is surging](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-12/medicinal-cannabis-research-centre/9043274)—but without regulatory process or medical supervision. In addition to fears over misuse, medical patients who benefit from cannabis have faced prohibitively high costs; many are forced to use the black market for affordable options.\n\nDespite only having legalized medical marijuana in 2016, Australia’s top officials hope to make the medical cannabis industry a robust sector of the nation’s economy. In January, Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull stated that Australia would be the world’s leading supplier of the drug. Yet, as reported by _The New York Times_ in February, [only 350 Australians have been approved to use cannabis legally](http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-12/medicinal-cannabis-research-centre/9043274). \n\n[Lindsay Carter](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/11/world/australia/medical-marijuana-cannabis-lindsay-carter.html) is a 19-year-old Australian who has suffered from epilepsy since age 14; recently, Lindsay was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Lindsay and his mother have taken four international trips to obtain the cannabis oil that Lindsay vaporizes. This is the only medication that provides relief from his severe symptoms. Within the current medical model, obtaining legal cannabis within Australia would cost the Carter family nearly $30,000 a year—if even available.\n\nAustralian officials hope that the progress of medical research will match a reduction in red tape for Australian patients who want to obtain cannabis as medicine. In the coming months and years, look to ACRE and [Medical Cannabis Research Australia](http://www.mcra.org.au/research.html) for key medical studies on the various uses of medical cannabis.\n\n### When it Comes to Legalizing Cannabis Federally, The Tide Is Finally Changing In the U.S. \n\nThere are rumblings from the U.S. government about national cannabis legalization. Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Reps. Barbara Lee (D-CA13) and Ro Khanna (D-CA17) introduced companion bills into the House and Senate called the Marijuana Justice Act, which would legalize cannabis throughout the country.\n\nSenate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) also announced he would introduce his own bill that would decriminalize cannabis on the federal level. Not only would such a change have repercussions for our criminal justice system, but it would also hopefully free up the many scientists who want to study the plant but can’t because it’s federally illegal. With more solid science behind the plant’s uses, we can only predict that more people will finally be able to access its incredible healing powers. \n\nPhoto credit: [chuttersnap](https://unsplash.com/@chuttersnap)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/14b42/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/f836f/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/2244e/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 400w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/14b42/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 800w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/47498/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/0e329/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 1600w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/df038/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.jpg 3670w","srcWebp":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/58556/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/61e93/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/1f5c5/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 400w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/58556/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 800w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/99238/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 1200w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/7c22d/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 1600w,\n/static/979512a1cde83a7222b9b215921e40bc/9122a/1b63bcc3996f3d677e7068c20f7fc13c.webp 3670w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2183-markdown","title":"Canada to Legalize Recreational Cannabis ","slug":"canada-to-legalize-recreational-cannabis","content":"### Canada Goes Recreational\r\n\r\nJustin Trudeau has introduced a bill to Canada’s parliament that would legalize recreational marijuana as early as July of 2018. Canada’s Cannabis Act will need to be approved by parliament before it could move forward. If the bill is approved, Canada will be the second nation in the world to completely legalize cannabis, the only other being Uruguay. \r\n\r\nAccording to [Bill Blair](http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/14/americas/canada-justin-trudeau-marijuana/), the parliamentary secretary to the ministry of justice, the legislation, \"seeks to legalize, strictly regulate and restrict access to cannabis, and it will make Canada safer.” The act will also encompass many different aspects of creating a legal recreational system within the country. \r\n\r\n### Full Government Regulation\r\n\r\nThe Cannabis Act establishes full government control over the marijuana industry, which is a large component of removing the current control of recreational marijuana from the hands of illegal entities. A new system will need to be created to regulate production, sales, and distribution of cannabis. There will also be a new system for taxes to be collected on marijuana, much like in states with recreational cannabis in the United States. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nProvinces will be able to establish their own regulations beyond what is determined by the national government. Provinces, for example, could levy additional taxes or implement a higher legal age of consumption. One major component of keeping government control over the recreational cannabis industry will be harsh laws against people who try to sell cannabis outside of the government established system, particularly to minors. Any person who sells cannabis to a minor under the proposed law could receive up to fourteen years in jail. \r\n\r\n### Out of the Hands of Minors\r\n\r\nRecreational cannabis under the Cannabis Act will be available to all adults over the age of 18, except if a province decides on a higher age of consumption. Each person could have 30 grams of cannabis on their person, as well as grow up to four plants per household. Consumers may also buy cannabis at dispensaries. The goal of the law is to keep cannabis out of the hands of minors and lawmakers believe they could do so by regulating cannabis much like alcohol. [Ralph Goodale](http://www.cnn.com/2017/04/14/americas/canada-justin-trudeau-marijuana/), the minister of public safety and emergency preparedness, explains that the act will be a great improvement on the current situation, \"If your objective is to protect public health and safety, and keep cannabis out of the hands of minors and stop the flow of illegal profits to organized crime, the law as it stands today, has been an abject failure.”\r\n\r\n### Similarities with the United States\r\n\r\nThere are some issues that Canada will face that are very familiar to ones being faced by states like California and Colorado. Driving under the influence of cannabis is an issue that will have to be addressed, but the Cannabis Act already outlines that no one will be able to drive less that two hours after consuming an intoxicating amount of cannabis. The current plan for law enforcement also outlines the use of saliva tests to determine if people are under the influence while driving, though they have not determined an “allowable” level yet. \r\n\r\nIn the first phase of the rollout edibles will not be legal, however edibles are expected to be allowed in a second stage of legalization. There will also be a strict no border crossing law with cannabis. Even if a person is traveling from Canada to a cannabis legal state in the Untied States, or vise versa, they could still be prosecuted for drug smuggling if they attempt to cross the border with cannabis on their person. \r\n\r\n### Trudeau Makes Good on His Promise\r\n\r\nThe idea of recreational cannabis legalization is not new to Trudeau’s platform. The Canadian prime minister originally introduced the idea on the campaign trail and has clearly stated that he believes that cannabis legalization would serve to reduce crime and decrease access for minors. Canada already has already legalized medical cannabis, and as a result the general population is relatively aware of and educated when it comes to cannabis consumtpion. If recreational cannabis is legalized in Canada, it could have implications for the United States, as people question the future of the industry on a national level with the Trump administration in power. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwABAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAwAEBf/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAF8oNE1z5H/xAAbEAACAwADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgAREgQhIv/aAAgBAQABBQJzpAunqoepxiGLt7//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEXH/2gAIAQMBAT8B1H//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEf/aAAgBAgEBPwGH/8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERMQIiUWJx/9oACAEBAAY/AuyNq4ILY5m0Zen/xAAaEAEAAwEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMVFh/9oACAEBAAE/Ia9N007Ad4hVqhRbUjQrh9lCLUG+znctWz//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAENvP/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAR/9oACAEDAQE/EFwAWr//xAAXEQADAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBEx/9oACAECAQE/EKOL/8QAGhABAQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFBsf/aAAgBAQABPxAnQutafS/MM5XiaF663cI/EWdx5o1QwGuCBLEjXGZWQ2crn//Z","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/14b42/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.jpg","srcSet":"/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/f836f/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.jpg 200w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/2244e/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.jpg 400w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/14b42/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.jpg 800w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/47498/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.jpg 1200w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/54ac5/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/58556/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/61e93/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.webp 200w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/1f5c5/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.webp 400w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/58556/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.webp 800w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/99238/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.webp 1200w,\n/static/93fff54c27fcf164f83cfb7a0be18cd7/5e0b8/8cf026efd3387e2d5bdf0ec7f2ce0542.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2153-markdown","title":"Marijuana Legalization is Going Global","slug":"marijuana-legalization-is-going-global","content":"### Progressive Policies Taking Hold\n\nIn the past few years we have seen progressively more legislation in the United States that is swinging in support of marijuana, both medical and recreational. States have built billion dollar industries on the formerly banned plant and other countries have taken notice. \n\nThe United States hasn’t always been on the forefront of marijuana legislation, but it is becoming a hot-bed for creativity and innovation in the marijuana industry. Though the United States is still limited by the overarching federally illegal status of cannabis, states have taken it upon themselves to embrace the amazing plant on their own. \n\n### Countries Outside the United States\n\nOften if people think of cannabis outside of the US, there is one country that comes to mind, the Netherlands. The cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam has long been the center of cannabis in the world due to its laissez-faire openly progressive marijuana policies. Yet  those who are up to date on their medicinal cannabis studies know that Israel is also the center of many marijuana innovations due to their extensive studies devoted to the health benefits of the plant. Though cannabis is still illegal in most countries in the world, here is a snapshot of the countries that are embracing marijuana in one way or another. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Uruguay\n\nUruguay was the first county in the world to completely legalize cannabis. The move, which was initiated in 2013, has become an interesting model for countries who have partially legalized the plant. There are still some bumps in the road, however, particularly in relation to the registration process in the country. There is very little trust of the government in Uruguay and some worry that the government database for legal cannabis users could be used against them later if a different administration comes into power and changes the laws. Interestingly, the majority of Uruguay’s population is not in favor of marijuana.\n\n### Czech Republic\n\nThe Czech Republic legalized medicinal marijuana in 2013, but the country has struggled to provide a consistent and quality source of medication to their patients. It is still notoriously hard to access cannabis even after you have received the proper credentials to obtain medical marijuana. Many hope that the Czech Republic alleviates some of their issues in the coming year as they create a more established industry. \n\nRELATED: [CANADA'S CASE FOR LEGALIZATION](https://hellomd.com/health-wellness/576ead4d16f3ba0007000174/canadian-prime-ministers-case-for-marijuana-legalization)\n\n### Ecuador\n\nEcuador is trying to change the image of drugs within their country. A long time victim of drug related gangs and the consequential War on Drugs, Ecuador has recently loosened their legal repercussions to cannabis. Though they have not technically legalized cannabis in any way, they have chosen to make it legal to have small amounts of marijuana. This has come on the tail of a widespread effort to pardon many non-violent drug offenders in the country. Many people believe Ecuador may soon follow in the footsteps of Uruguay and move towards full legalization of cannabis. \n\n### Canada\n\nOur neighbor to the north has often been quite friendly to medical cannabis, but they have yet to recreationally legalize cannabis in any provinces. Medical marijuana is widely available and is seen as respected medication. Patients are reimbursed by the government for visits to the cannabis doctor and there is government oversight for medicinal marijuana production and distribution. They have also decreased marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule II substance, a move that the Untied States failed to make in the last year. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/588f897cd5e9e1000c153b31/embedded_images/588f8b44c660b1000cff8542/Screen_Shot_2017-01-30_at_10.49.48_AM.png) \n\n### Spain\n\nSpain is an interesting case in the world of marijuana. From walking down the streets of Barcelona, you would largely believe that marijuana is legal, but it is not. Amsterdam style “coffee shops” line the streets and they are quite popular, but technically they are still illegal. Marijuana has been decriminalized in Spain and it is widely accepted, leading many people to believe that it will soon be recreationally legalized. \n\n### Portugal\n\nCannabis is not legal in Portugal, but it is not illegal either. Portugal decriminalized all drug possession in 2001 and since, they have served as an experiment into the world of complete personal determination when it comes to drug use. Portugal is clear to point out that the medical marijuana industry in the country is completely distinct from the grey recreational industry that exists in a country with complete drug decriminalization.\n\n### Netherlands\n\nAmsterdam has built a reputation on its “coffee shops” that dish out made to order joints and famous “moon cake” edibles. In the rest of the country, however, recreational cannabis is not legal, however medicinal consumption is. This has created an interesting dichotomy in a county with a city famous for its cannabis tourism. Laws regarding cannabis have actually gotten harsher in recent years, making cannabis more difficult to access.\n\n### Germany\n\nGermany is one of the newest countries to approve medical marijuana within their borders. The move was unanimously voted in and will take effect in March of 2017. Much like medical marijuana within the Untied States, patients will have to be approved by a doctor using a list of qualifying conditions, or based on a physician’s opinion. Germany is increasingly becoming a world leader on cannabis and as well as other global issues, especially within the European Union, making it a pronounced example for other countries across the world. \n\n### A Snapshot of What's to Come\n\nThese eight countries only provide a snapshot of what is happening in cannabis industries all across the world. Eight other countries and territories across the world have also legalized cannabis recreationally, each with different rules and regulations governing what qualities a patient for medical marijuana must have in order to be eligible. Those countries are Australia, Chile, Puerto Rico, Israel, Macedonia, Croatia, Colombia, and Poland. \n\nThe tide has turned in favor of legalization all across the world and it is likely that that trend with continue to spread. Marijuana is also being widely decriminalized even when it is not being legalized. Continued research from all across the world will provide increasingly more countries with the motivation to legalize marijuana due to its widespread effectiveness as a medication. \n\n_____________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/14b42/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg","srcSet":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/f836f/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/2244e/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 400w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/14b42/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 800w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/47498/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 1200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/54ac5/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/58556/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/61e93/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/1f5c5/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 400w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/58556/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 800w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/99238/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 1200w,\n/static/19cbfd4a226e46e8dee58413d6ec9ea3/5e0b8/f1c222e2dbbc014c7e57d7c99266a549.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2019-markdown","title":"Canadian Prime Minister's Case for Marijuana Legalization","slug":"canadian-prime-ministers-case-for-marijuana-legalization","content":"Justin Trudeau, the Canadian Prime Minister, spoke at an economic conference in early June and provided very sound reasoning for marijuana legalization: marijuana legalization is what is best for the children of Canada. It sounds shocking but Trudeau explains legalization should not be thought of as tax revenue builder or a window into new industry, but an act of safety. His ideas focus on two simple principles, that legalization could decrease the access that young people have to marijuana and that it would prevent billions of dollars from flowing into the hands of gangs and cartels. \r\n\r\n### Protecting Teens Through Legalization\r\n\r\nCanada is already ranked # 1 in the availability of marijuana to the underage population. Trudeau believes that through regulation and control of marijuana, it is possible make it more difficult for young people to obtain cannabis. The legalization of marijuana will not increase accessibility of marijuana, but if it is taken off the streets and put into stores, teens will have a more difficult time getting a hold of it. According to a Monitoring the Future study conducted state-side, nearly 80% of 12th graders said that it would be easy for them to obtain marijuana. \r\n\r\nTrudeau’s idea that legalization could reduce teen marijuana use could hold a lot of clout. A Washington University School of Medicine study showed that the number of teens with marijuana related problems, dependency or trouble with family and school due to cannabis, fell by 24% between 2002-2013, during which 13 states legalized medical marijuana. The overall number of teens using marijuana fell as well. After recreational marijuana legalization in Colorado and Washington, federal data showed no significant increase in marijuana use among teens from year to year. \r\n\r\n### Keeping Money Out of the Hands of Cartels\r\n\r\nTrudeau argues that creating a legal channel for marijuana reduces the underground marijuana market. As is the historical problem with prohibition, the industry has been driven into the hands of illegal cartels. Illegal drug cartels promote violence internally and abroad and can cause issues with border security. The illegal drug trade also comes with added gang violence from turf wars and rivalries, violence that can touch both innocents and gang members in the crossfire. \r\n\r\nPartial legalization has already helped reduce illegal drug trade in the US. A kilo of marijuana has dropped $30 to $50 on the black market in the past few years due to legal production state-side. Cartels have been hard pressed to keep up with the quality of domestically produced marijuana in the US and in Canada, according to the Drug Enforcement Agency’s national drug threat assessment. US border seizures have also dropped from four million pounds of cannabis in 2009 to one and a half million pounds in 2015. \r\n\r\n### Legalization Can Do What Prohibition Cannot\r\n\r\nKeeping marijuana illegal has only served to magnify many problems. Many of the safety concerns that opponents of marijuana legalization have are coming true while marijuana remains illegal. The increased regulations provided by legalization will increase the safeties of countries as a whole. With the addition of a possible decreased availability for underaged peoples and the reduction of money moving into illegal industries, marijuana legalization looks like the best idea going forward for the future of Canada and the United States.\r\n\r\nInterested in asking a question about this? Go to [HelloMD Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) and ask one of our doctors or community. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/14b42/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/f836f/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.jpg 200w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/2244e/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.jpg 400w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/14b42/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.jpg 800w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/47498/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/54ac5/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/58556/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/61e93/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.webp 200w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/1f5c5/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.webp 400w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/58556/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.webp 800w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/99238/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.webp 1200w,\n/static/ad91a89f6b68264152eac079eda28ba9/5e0b8/45f0d4184f3671f8c1facf562b0f5840.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1918-markdown","title":"Canadian HIV/AIDS Researchers Support Medical Marijuana Over Opioids","slug":"canadian-hivaids-researchers-support-medical-marijuana-over-opioids","content":"Vancouver-based HIV/AIDS researchers argue in a newly published editorial that Canadian doctors should use medical marijuana instead of frequently abused opioids to treat patients with neuropathic pain, as well as many other conditions that cannabis has been proven to help with. \n\n### Doctors Frustrated by Slow Government Action on Cannabis\n\nDr. Thomas Kerr, Dr. Julio Montaner and Research Associate Stephanie Lake of the British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS [accused the Canadian Medical Association of ignoring peer-reviewed cannabis studies](https://beta.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/researchers-urge-medical-marijuana-over-opioids-to-treat-neuropathic-pain/article26733746/?ref=http://www.theglobeandmail.com&). According to Dr. Kerr, five recent randomized control trials and two systemic reviews found that cannabis helps with neuropathic pain. However, doctors still don’t like to prescribe medical marijuana as it hasn’t been approved by Health Canada, the government department that oversees healthcare issues in the country. \n\nRELATED: [CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER’S CASE FOR MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/576ead4d16f3ba0007000174/canadian-prime-ministers-case-for-marijuana-legalization)\n\n“The evidence supporting the therapeutic use of cannabis is actually much stronger than the use of other drugs that are used to treat the same condition and it also seems, in many cases, that cannabis has a more favorable side-effect profile,” Dr. Kerr said. He also mentioned that opioids such as oxycodone, morphine and hydromorphine are increasingly prescribed and contributed to almost half of all overdose deaths in the country.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### Medicinal Marijuana Effective at Reducing Opioid-Related Deaths\n\nDr. Kerr also commented, “Opioids are killing people right now. There is no association with cannabis and mortality, and yet North America is in the midst of, really, what is a public-health emergency associated to opioid deaths. If doctors prescribed more cannabis to those with chronic pain, they may cut down on these deaths.” \n\nResearch in the U.S. shows that fatal overdoses dropped by 25% in states that enacted medicinal marijuana laws. Dr. Kerr states that medicinal cannabis has also proven to relieve spasticity and the wasting associated with HIV/AIDS, as well as nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.\n\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/violet96/7478658228/in/photolist-coS5xf-rnUHWR-k3cKpU-6vmHTU-4UAxsu-6KMfsR-h38Qpq-7QsAJW-7bcPXT-cKkPXf-66FtVn-xKMDVo-6XozFo-7sZEn-4Ytuaq-9GQvPh-aiwvq5-a2MB7-nncmcJ-7PV2vn-9zmihK-5SMf14-oNSA6d-yB6nFy-yMzfSL-qCvPtp-7MeiXE-obco3j-9Viurb-sejH16-52uHAv-pp7YBE-goCmpj-sGS1UD-iCT7CE-4QTDnm-veQ41f-5JywNQ-hgrWBb-zeen7c-pb9vUY-6CWBgP-cfLSYC-6mdMbb-d2RuYE-dwLgYp-wN61eQ-pLM4Fq-aWz48r-8yYFSu)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/14b42/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/f836f/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.jpg 200w,\n/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/2244e/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.jpg 400w,\n/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/14b42/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.jpg 800w,\n/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/47498/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/58556/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/61e93/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.webp 200w,\n/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/1f5c5/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.webp 400w,\n/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/58556/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.webp 800w,\n/static/7a9d248d4d3d457dbf20a2a31e1a1776/99238/eb633f281be5f375c92cb30fe2013d5c.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5041,"name":"Canada","slug":"canada","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}