The Medical Cannabis Advisory Board (MCAB) hosted its April meeting today to discuss and vote on a recommendation for adding Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) to the conditions eligible for a medical cannabis registry identification card in Illinois. After three presentations from experts in the field, all board members in attendance vote yes to recommend adding SCD, except for Dr. Gunar Subieta, who abstained.

The first presenter, Preventive Medicine Medical Advisor at the Illinois Department of Public Health, Dr. Catherine Counard, discussed trends with SCD treatment statistics, including hospitalization and mortality rates.

The second presenter, Dr. Jennifer Light (Assistant Professor of Clinical Pediatrics, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Adult Sickle Cell Care, OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois Cancer & Blood Disorder Institute, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria) discussed her experience treating patients with cannabis.

“Many patients would like more options than opioids for pain, both acute and chronic,” Light said. “And then cannabinoids can be helpful in select populations with Sickle Cell Disease, after the discussion of risks and benefits. And I think it would be a very helpful adjunct therapy to for them to have access to.”

Lastly, Dr. Reginald Guadino, Director of the Cannabis Research Institute, presented slides that included graphics and models of the body and endocannabinoid system, the modulation of pain, and treatment for inflammation and neurogenic pain.

The next MCAB meeting is scheduled for 3:30-5 p.m. on Oct. 5, 2026.

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