THUNDER BAY — Just like tobacco, cannabis can cause a variety of oral health issues, including cancer.
A research team from the University of Toronto is now looking for volunteers in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario to help measure the long-term impacts of cannabis, especially on Indigenous populations.
"Emerging evidence suggests a link between cannabis smoking and oral health issues, including oral cancers," said Dr. Frank Mauro, a member of the team at the Confederation College dental clinic, which is collaborating in the study.
The project is focusing on Indigenous youth and adults because periodic oral health surveys have reported these groups experience worse oral health outcomes than the general population.
Over the next three years, U of T researchers led by Professor Herenia Lawrence of the Faculty of Dentistry will be working with self-identified cannabis users and non-users from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.
Participants between the ages of 19 and 55 with most or all of their teeth will undergo non-invasive tests conducted by trained oral health practitioners.
Saliva and urine samples will be taken to measure cannabis exposure, and sensory tests will assess facial pain sensitivity.
The researchers will regularly monitor the participants for any changes, including for inflammation in the mouth, the development of pre-cancerous lesions, and changes in oral and facial sensory function.
The study is funded by a $1.5 million grant through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
Lawrence said cannabis consumption has been associated with a higher risk of gum disease, oral infection and cancer of the oral cavity.
"Because these effects often are compounded by tobacco use and the use of other drugs, research is needed to address the specific effects of cannabis on oral health," she added.
The study will utilize an Indigenous Learning Circle model to ensure Indigenous perspectives shape the research from start to finish, and that they inform any resulting health policies.
Besides Confederation College, Lawrence said her team will be working in partnership with several Indigenous communities and public health authorities across Ontario as well as in Manitoba.
Participants will be compensated with up to $250 per year.
More information can be obtained by email– [email protected] – or by phoning 416-978-5974.
