Melanomas - what do experts say about the subject?
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that starts in pigment-producing skin cells called melanocytes. These cells change and begin to grow uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissue. Although melanoma is less common than other types of skin cancer, it is arguably one of the most serious.
When diagnosed in the early stages, it can be cured, however, in more advanced stages, melanoma can spread over a distance, giving rise to metastases, through the blood or lymphatic system to other organs and bones, reducing the likelihood of a cure.
Melanoma grows in tissues in two ways:
- radial growth (less invasive and earlier)
- vertical growth, that is, deep in the dermis and close to vessels, with the capacity to cause metastases.
People with dark skin have the same number of melanocytes as people with paler skin.
The difference lies in the amount of melanin that these same cells produce. Therefore, the greater the production of melanin, the darker the skin will be and vice versa.
It is a difficult pathology to diagnose, requiring a medical study to confirm it, as there are several factors to take into account in its diagnosis, from the appearance of the mole, asymmetry, growth pattern, among others, and it can easily be confused with other skin problems, which is why it is important to be monitored by a dermatologist.
In Portugal, there are 1000 cases per year, of which 95% are curable, as they are detected in the early stages.
How can CBD help?
Cannabinoid derivatives show potential in this context, as these products contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and even antineoplastic properties. Endocannabinoids and their receptors are spread throughout the body, and are especially abundant in the integumentary system. This means that cannabis -based products are also capable of interacting with our skin. And they can, therefore, be explored as topical alternatives for the treatment of a series of diseases, for example acne, pruritus, eczema, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, skin neoplasms and difficult-to-heal wounds, such as varicose veins or pressure injuries.
When it comes to skin cancer and melanoma, topical use of CBD lotions and oils has the potential to inhibit neoplastic cells and prevent their emergence.
What do experts say on the subject?
Several scientific studies indicate that the action of phytocannabinoids on sensory nerves, inflammatory cells and structures attached to the skin is capable of reducing itching, relieving pain and promoting the death of neoplastic cells in the epidermis.
A study carried out in 2020 proved that activation of CB1 and CB2 receptors, through the use of CBD, inhibits the growth, proliferation and metastasis of melanomas .
Another study, published by the Journal of Cancer Research and Therapeutics, proved that the use of cannabinoids, individually or in combination, reduced the growth of melanoma neoplastic cells, promoting apoptosis and autophagy of these cancer cells .
Furthermore, a study carried out in 2017 in Israel, published in the Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences , proved that the use of cannabinoids in the fight against skin cancer has very positive results.
This study demonstrated that Tau and Stathmin proteins are the key proteins in the metastatic growth of this type of cancer. It also highlighted that the use of cannabinoids significantly reduces cell migration and the expression of Tau and Stathmin protein genes compared to the control group.
In addition to the above, several health professionals recommend the use of CBD as a complementary method to other cancer treatment methods such as chemotherapy and radiation. In addition to cell death and increasing the potency of medications, CBD also proves to be a good ally in the following areas:
- Treatment of nausea and vomiting – relieves nausea and vomiting caused by conventional cancer treatments.
- Pain control – CBD is an excellent analgesic, as it acts on neuropathic pain, relieving pain symptoms or even eliminating them. It can be taken in conjunction with opioids, reducing their dosage, to maintain a balance of medication in the body.
- Mood control – regulates the levels of serotonin and anandamide, present in our brain, contributing to the general well-being of the body and mood regulation.
While there is a wealth of research and studies showing how CBD can reduce the growth of cancer cells, destroy cancer cells, and help regulate skin cancer, it is important to note that there is still no solid evidence to support the use of CBD oil as a sole treatment for skin cancer. Many studies still need to be conducted. It is recommended that treatment be monitored by a specialist.