This study sought to describe type, frequency, purpose and patterns of
herbal medicine used by a sample of patients with cancer in Palestine. A
cross-sectional survey of patients attending the outpatient cancer departments
at the Governmental Hospitals was undertaken using semi-structured
questionnaires.
Results A total of 1260 patients with cancer were
interviewed. Of the participants, 60.9% (n = 767) reported
using herbs primarily bought from Palestine (92.3%) frequently employed in the
form of decoctions (43%). The most common herbal product was Arum
palaestinum (22.5%). Most Complementary and Alternative (CAM) users were
more than 40 years of age, predominantly female, and living in rural areas of
Palestine. Family member’s recommendation was cited as the main factor
prompting participants to use CAM (43.5%).
Conclusion This study
revealed that there is an appreciable prevalence of herbal use among patients
with cancer in Palestine.