Dr. Walker questions the Minister for Health about research linking cannabis use to decreased cognitive decline and asks if the Minister will collaborate with the Minister for Seniors and Ageing to consider this research in WA. The Minister acknowledges the research and expresses confidence in WA clinicians.

AnsweredQoN 369Legislative Council
Asked
7 May 2024
Portfolio
Health

QuestionView source ↗

CANNABIS —
COGNITIVE FUNCTION
369. Hon Dr BRIAN WALKER to the parliamentary secretary
representing the Minister for Health:
I refer the minister to research
from Upstate Medical University, Central New York's leading teaching
hospital, that highlights a surprising link between recreational cannabis use
and a decreased risk of subjective cognitive decline—SCD.
(1) Is the
minister aware that cannabis has the documented capacity to increase both
neuronal cells and neural connections, thereby providing an opportunity for
slowing cognitive decline?
(2) Will the
minister commit to working with her colleague the Minister for Seniors and
Ageing to ensure that this latest research is considered by appropriate
authorities in WA in the hope that it might improve patient outcomes and reduce
the instances of SCD in our state?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the honourable member for
some notice of the question. The following has been provided by the Minister
for Health.
(1) Yes.
(2) I am
confident that academic and community clinicians in Western Australia will
continue to lead the way in applying contemporary research to best manage the
clinical needs of their patients.

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