33MD for April 1, 2009

Doctors say there’s another reason to support medical marijuana. It appears to help fight cancer. A new study out of Spain says components in pot called “cannabinoids” appeared to slow the growth of brain tumors. Doctors focused on one specific component called THC. In mice with human brain tumors, the THC slowed down the tumor’s progress.

More women are opting for C-sections rather than delivering the natural way. But as the rate of C-sections goes up, so does the number of complications. This hospital room is where Allyson Solarzano has spent the past five weeks and it’s where she’ll stay until Asher Michael seen here in ultrasound is delivered via C-section. “We didn’t think we’d make it this far so being at 30 weeks tomorrow is a big achievement for us.” Solarzano’s pregnancy is high risk because she’s had two necessary C-sections and this will be her third.

Dr. John Elliot says he’s seeing more and more high risk pregnancies and says it’s tied to record numbers of C-sections. “It’s been a problem for a while and it’s just now perhaps becoming a little more known to the public.” Dr. Elliot says C-sections are increasing because older women are having babies, obesity is an epidemic, and simply because a woman wants one. “I call them designer deliveries. There are a number of these pregnancies that are becoming C-sections based on patient desire and convenience.” The problem is, Elliot says C-sections increase the risks including massive bleeding, blood clots, organ damage, infertility, and even death. “It’s a sign of the times to see this, but it’s not a good sign.” But Solarzano isn’t too worried, she’s confident everything will be okay.

Dr. Elliot says it is possible to have a natural delivery after having a C-section. Bottom line, talk to your doctor and find out your options and risks.