Compounds in cannabis could limit stroke damage

UK Stroke Forum have revealed that compounds found in cannabis could be beneficial to stroke victims. It has been suggested, after research was conducted at the University of Nottingham, that chemical comounds found in cannabis may help to reduce brain damage following a stroke. The findings showed that the compounds could reduce the size of a stroke and improve neurological function.

Dr Dale Webb, Director of Research and Information at the Stroke Association, said: "A stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in the UK, with more than half of all stroke survivors left dependent on others for everyday activities. With more people in the UK surviving a stroke, it’s never been more important to find new treatments to help more stroke patients make better recoveries.

“This new research is an example of the many new developments in the field of stroke which are being presented at this year’s UK Stroke Forum. 

"The findings have identified the potential for cannabinoids to reduce brain damage caused by stroke. Further research is needed to investigate whether cannabinoids have the same effects in humans: the effects of cannabis on the brain are highly complex and it remains a risky substance.”

Over 150,000 people have a stroke every year in the UK, and over one million people are living with the effects of stroke.

The UK Stroke Forum is hosted by the Stroke Association and is a coalition of over 30 organisations committed to improving stroke care in the UK. It aims to bring together healthcare professionals in stroke annually to meet and share ideas, and also enables patients to meet stroke professionals and help shape future services.

For more information about the Stroke Association, visit www.stroke.org.uk