Predictors of herbal medicine use among cancer patients

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence, the determinants and the predictors of this use. Methods At the regional oncology center of Beni Mellal, we conducted a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study with 530 adult cancer patients chosen by quota sampling. A 54-item questionnaire was used to perform the face-to-face survey. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) and a CAM healthcare model were used to create this instrument. Using SPSS software, we performed bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses as well as logistic regression. Results The prevalence of traditional herbal medicine use was 36.6%. Several variables of the conceptual model were associated with the use of herbal medicine (gender, attitude and belief towards T&CM, financial resources, clinical characteristics of patients) (p < 0.05). Predictors of traditional herbal medicine use were female gender (OR = 4.687; p < 0.000), social impact of cancer (OR = 2.314; p < 0.05), emotional impact of cancer (OR = 2.314; p < 0. 05), expected benefits of TM/CAM use (OR = 3.453; p < 0.000), perceived scientific barriers (OR = 0.580; p < 0.000), perceived socioeconomic barriers (OR = 0.657; p < 0.005), and the use and social norms of relatives (OR = 3.238; p < 0). Conclusion Because of the high prevalence of herbal medicine, health care providers should focus on specialized and multidisciplinary therapeutic education that focuses on the psychosocial factors and representations that underpin this use.