The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada has announced a large investment into medicinal cannabis research.
In partnership with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), $1.5 million will be provided for research into how cannabis can be used to manage the symptoms of MS as well as its effect on the disease.
“The MS Society is pleased to invest in this first-of-its-kind funding opportunity in Canadian MS research,” said Dr. Pamela Valentine, president and CEO, MS Society of Canada, in a press release.
“Cannabis is still a relatively unknown substance from the perspective of evidence-based research, so investing in research on cannabis use is an important first step for determining its applicability and efficacy towards managing MS.”
The announcement is part of what the organizations are calling the Integrated Cannabis Research Strategy.
The strategy includes partnerships with numerous organizations including the Institute of Cancer Research, Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health, Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health, Arthritis Society, Canadian Cancer Society, Mental Health Commission of Canada and several other organizations.
“The $1.5 million investment will span over five years to help accelerate cannabis health research in MS,” concludes the announcement.
