Dementia Research: Now Recruiting

Are you interested in working on a unique project that could impact the health and well-being of thousands of Canadians? If so, keep reading!

The Coronavirus pandemic has presented many challenges, but perhaps no group has felt the impact more significantly than our country’s nearly 200,000 long-term care (LTC) residents. LTC residents are among the most vulnerable to the virus and individuals living with dementia, which make up more than 64% of Ontario’s LTC residents, have been especially impacted, as significant and prolonged changes to their routines can impact their responsive behaviours and exacerbate symptoms. Even in a post-pandemic world, we must be prepared for long-standing changes, and it is essential that innovative solutions be explored immediately.

Through this trail-blazing research project, you will join experienced applied researcher, Dr. Mikelle Bryson-Campbell PhD, and internationally recognized cannabinoid medicine specialist, Dr. Blake Pearson MD, as part of the core research team to assess the impact of cannabinoid therapy on social engagement, quality of life, and well-being amongst individuals living with dementia in long-term care. The ultimate goal is to identify an additional dementia therapy that is safe, effective and promotes the opportunity for greater social participation, improved quality of life and reduced caregiver burden.

We’re looking for a part-time Research Assistant and two part-time Research Students to work on this trailblazing and much-needed research project. 

Research Assistant must be currently enrolled in or hold a Master’s or PhD in Health Sciences. Full job spec available here.

Research students must be completing their undergraduate degree or diploma from a Health Sciences program (Nursing, RPN, PSW, Pharmacy, etc.) Full job spec available here.

Please send all applications to Mikelle.bryson-campbell@lambtoncollege.ca. The deadline to apply is August 16, 2021

Drug Overdose Deaths Hit Highest Number Ever Recorded, CDC Data Shows

New data released by the CDC has revealed that drug overdose deaths rose by close to 30% in the United States in 2020 – hitting the highest number ever recorded. As in recent years, inappropriate use of opioids was behind most of the deaths. Overdoses from opioids have been steadily worsening in the US for decades. Congress has blamed the FDA for approving new synthetic opioids and some drug-makers have been prosecuted for their role in marketing them.  Doctors have also been blamed for overprescribing opioids and addicting people to them in the first place.

When are we going to stop talking about “what needs to be done” and actually introduce some bold changes here!? Sure, the FDA could introduce more oversight in prescribing – but you can’t take something away without empowering doctors with a safe and effective alternative. I won’t claim that cannabinoid-based medicine will solve this complex problem – but the fact that new doctors are graduating med school with zero knowledge about this much safer class of medicine and the majority of veteran doctors are still dismissive, is unacceptable and untenable given the evidence—especially when it comes to managing pain.

In the fight against opioid addiction we need to equip medical professionals with knowledge regarding safer alternatives AND improve patient access by providing more robust cost coverage.

First Clinical Trial to Study Cannabis as Treatment for Migraine

Very excited about this announcement of the first randomized controlled clinical trial in the U.S. to investigate cannabis as a treatment option for migraine headaches. Clinically, I have seen numerous patients benefit from cannabinoid-based medicines when other migraine treatments have failed, so this is a huge step forward in advancing our understanding. 

Self-Care Spring Cleaning: Episode 2

When was the last time you reviewed your medications and supplements with your doctor? Why should you care?

In this pandemic year, many people have missed their annual wellness checks. Recent data also shows a potential rise in self-medication - including over-the-counter meds, supplements, alcohol & recreational drugs - all of which could lead to serious side-effects.  

In episode two, Dr. Pearson will be joined by certified geriatric pharmacist and Health Depot (tag) CEO, Andrew Donald and Tilray’s Philippe Lucas PhD, for an interactive discussion on everything you need to know to medicate mindfully.