Over half of the UK’s population could benefit from medical cannabis, but the lack of awareness means millions of potential patients continue to turn to other treatments.
A nationally representative survey of 4,210 UK citizens, conducted by medical cannabis clinic Releaf, found that 50.2% of the population suffer from conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and more.
Despite nearly half of respondents with eligible conditions reporting that their condition impacts their daily lives, just 41.5% knew that medical cannabis was readily available in the UK.
Furthermore, a fear of stigma and legal repercussions means that less than 1% of the population has an active prescription.
You can download the full report here.
Key findings
Releaf set out to examine the potential impact medical cannabis treatments could have on the UK’s population, which suffer from a long list of debilitating conditions including chronic pain, menstrual cramps, appetite disorders, depression, fibromyalgia, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease, PTSD, ADHD and anxiety.
Say No to Pain: Research into Attitudes Towards Medicinal Cannabis in the UK
In June 2023, Releaf UK released a comprehensive report on the UK’s attitudes towards medicinal cannabis. The survey, conducted in April 2023 with 4,210 respondents, reveals significant insights into public perceptions, awareness, and the potential benefits of medicinal cannabis.
Eligibility and Awareness: A striking 50.2% of UK adults suffer from conditions that could be treated with medicinal cannabis. Yet, awareness is low, with only 41.5% knowing it’s legal and 34.77% mistakenly believing it remains illegal since its legalisation in 2018. This equates to around 16.5 million adults still in the dark about its legal status.
Pain and Quality of Life: Nearly half (45.6%) of those with eligible conditions experience significant discomfort, affecting daily activities, work, and personal life. Conditions include chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and more. About 34.9% report their conditions impact their family life, and 32.83% say it affects their ability to work or study.
Prescription Uptake: Despite the high number of potential beneficiaries, less than 1% have secured a prescription. This suggests a systemic barrier to access, likely compounded by fear of stigma and legal repercussions. Approximately 24% of potential users worry about police scrutiny, and 34% fear being perceived as acting illegally.
Interest in Treatment: There is, however, substantial interest in medicinal cannabis. Over 70% of those with treatable conditions would consider it if recommended by a doctor. Additionally, around 25% have already used cannabis medicinally without a prescription, with many finding it effective for managing low mood, specific medical conditions, and pain.
The findings underscore the urgent need for public education on medicinal cannabis, its benefits, and legal status. Addressing these gaps could help millions access beneficial treatments, improve their quality of life and reduce stigma.
Releaf CEO, Tim Kirby explained: “We know that when challenged, showing an FP10 prescription can be intimidating and requires explanation or confirmation that the medication listed on the prescription is medical cannabis. We wanted to remove this fear factor and stop any challenges in their tracks by having a convenient card that requires no explanation.
“Alongside this, it assists the UK Police Force as they can make a quick and confident decision that when the patient has a Releaf Medical Cannabis Card, they are consuming cannabis for medicinal purposes and their entire supply chain is completely, 100% legal.”
