Recent Publications
This page highlights recent publications related to psychedelics and its potential use in mental health and cancer care. Here you’ll find summaries of peer-reviewed studies from our CAN-PACT team members, ongoing clinical trials, and emerging evidence from the growing field of psychedelic-assisted therapy. The goal is to provide patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals with access to up-to-date, evidence-informed resources to support informed understanding and decision-making. All publications featured on this page have been reviewed by our team.
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies for Psychosocial Symptoms in Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2025)
This study reviewed the latest research on psychedelic-assisted therapies, such as psilocybin and ketamine, for adults with cancer who experience depression, anxiety, or emotional distress.
Roadmap for Equitable Access and Responsible Use of Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy in Palliative Care (2025)
This report summarizes key insights from a national forum exploring how to responsibly expand access to psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy in palliative care. Despite its potential benefits, challenges remain around regulation, integration, and equity—prompting 16 recommendations to guide future implementation in Canada and beyond.
A Protocol for a Scoping Review of Variations among Psychedelic Interventions for Psychological Suffering Associated with the End-of-Life (2025)
This scoping review aims to explore the range of psychedelic substances and therapeutic approaches studied for easing psychological suffering in end-of-life care. By synthesizing existing empirical research, the review seeks to inform future discussions on how psychedelic interventions—such as psilocybin, ayahuasca, and ketamine—may be integrated into care for those facing life-threatening illness.
"Facing Death... Now, That's a Serious Thing to Confront" A Qualitative Analysis of Patient Perspectives on Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for Cancer-Related Psychosocial Symptoms (2025)
This study found that people living with cancer are cautiously optimistic about psychedelic-assisted therapy, seeing potential for easing anxiety, depression, and fear of death when current supports fall short. However, stigma, cost, legal uncertainty, and limited access make PAT feel out of reach, highlighting both strong interest and major barriers to integration in cancer care.