Currently, the debate surrounding the legalization and use of cannabis has gained great relevance in various parts of the world. While more and more countries have legalized its therapeutic use, many nations still maintain restrictive laws that hinder patients' access to this treatment alternative. In this article we will see if the legislation surrounding medical cannabis is in some cases violating the rights of the population to obtain access to medicine and to make their therapeutic choice.
The gap between legislation and scientific evidence:
One of the main points of contention is the discrepancy between current laws and the growing scientific evidence supporting the therapeutic use of cannabis. Numerous studies have demonstrated the potential benefits of this plant in alleviating various medical conditions, such as chronic pain, epilepsy, cancer and neurological disorders. However, many legal systems continue to consider cannabis as a dangerous substance with no medical value, which is contradictory to the available evidence.
Limited access to medicine:
Restrictive laws prevent those who could benefit from medical cannabis from accessing it safely and legally. As a plant that can be grown at home and can provide remedies for a variety of medical conditions, current laws violate people's rights by not allowing them to grow it in the privacy of their own home. It is ironic that those who resort to self-cultivation or home production of oils and extracts face possible legal penalties.
Human rights and freedom of therapeutic choice:
Access to medicine, including cannabis, is a fundamental human right. Restrictive laws that prevent access to safe and effective medicinal treatments are a violation of this right. Every individual should have the freedom to choose the treatment they deem most appropriate for their medical condition, in consultation with health professionals. To deny them this choice is to limit their autonomy and well-being.
The need for legislative change:
It is time for the legal system to catch up with reality and adopt a more progressive approach to medical cannabis. This involves reviewing and reforming current laws to allow safe and legal access to this therapeutic alternative. Clear, evidence-based regulations must be established to ensure adequate quality, safety and control in the production and distribution of medical cannabis.
Outdated curricula:
Many health care professionals practicing today have not been trained or educated in the use of cannabis as a medical alternative. This includes psychiatric professionals. This is because the scientific discoveries about the medicinal applications of this plant are so recent, universities are not yet using literature that contains this information. Of course there are many doctors and scientists who are aware of the benefits of cannabis, but it has been because of their own concern and research and not because it was dictated by an educational body.
Cannabis in Barcelona:
In our city, for example, for years we have had cannabis dispensaries and weed clubs where people can consume cannabis in a social environment without breaking the law. It is also possible for those of us who live here to grow the plant and consume it at home, but there are still not so many countries and cities that are relaxing their cannabis laws.
Conclusion:
Once a substance has been proven to serve as a medicine, especially if it is something natural such as a plant, it becomes part of the patient's choice whether to use it for treatment. The law cannot prohibit the use of such a substance, but it must regulate it. We can only hope that in the coming years the legislations will be revised and the whole population will be allowed to have access to cannabis products even if it is for medicinal purposes.
Español 
English 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Français 