Cannabis Research in Pennsylvania

• Asia Tabb
  BioRecent Stories

  

  Asia Tabb is the Host and Producer for WITF’s The Spark.
  
  She began her start in radio when she joined legendary radio/ host producer, Doc Christian. She worked closely with Doc for her role on “The Gospel Express, on WHOV 88.1 FM and was a host for “Unrestricted Praise” at Praise FM.
  
  Previously she was an anchor in Shreveport, Louisiana at KTAL/KMSS. Asia also worked as a Multi-Media Journalist at WHP-TV here in Harrisburg, PA.
  
  Asia got her break into news at KTVO in Ottumwa, Ia. While the 2020 caucuses were gearing up. Asia followed many candidates through their campaign trail from Senator Cory Booker, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, and 46th President of the United States Joe Biden.
  
  Asia was born and raised in Norfolk, Va. She graduated from Old Dominion University in 2018 with a major in Communications.
  
  Asia is extremely friendly so don’t be afraid to say hi if you see her out and about.

Close up doctor holding marijuana bud

aired; June 1, 2026

Listen to the podcast to hear the full conversation. 

Researchers from across Pennsylvania join The Spark to discuss medical cannabis research, the implications of federal cannabis reclassification, and what scientists are learning about both the benefits and risks of marijuana use.

Guests include Stephen Lankenau, Director of Medical Cannabis Research Center at Drexel University; Dr. Raup-Konsavage of Penn State; and Mark Kelley, Clinical Research Coordinator with the Medical Marijuana Research Program at LECOM.

The conversation examines how changes in federal cannabis policy could affect scientific research, including whether reclassification will make it easier for researchers to study cannabis and its potential medical applications. The guests also explain Pennsylvania’s unique medical cannabis research framework, which allows certain medical schools and healthcare partners to collaborate with approved cannabis providers on research projects.

The discussion explores promising areas of study, including potential therapeutic uses for medical cannabis, while also addressing concerns surrounding long-term use, dependency, side effects, and public perceptions of marijuana. Researchers share what has surprised them most during their work and discuss how current findings align with Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program.

The segment also looks ahead at what questions remain unanswered and whether additional federal action may be necessary to advance cannabis research and better understand its role in modern medicine.