Pharmacoepidemiologic Study of the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use in Patient with Cancer in Benghazi, Libya

Abstract

Background: Cancer patients are increasingly turning to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to improve their physical and psychological well-being. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use by Libyan populations in Benghazi city. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted among 100 patients attending the National Cancer Center at Howari Hospital in Benghazi city. A 16-item questionnaire was used to collect the data. The questionnaire addressed the sociodemographic characteristics, cancer conditions, and use of CAM. The main outcome of interest was “use of any CAM therapy since cancer diagnosis.” Results:  The total prevalence of CAM among cancer patients was 100%, regardless of cancer type. Lung and breast cancer were the most prevalent in our study (23 and 22%), with stage 2 being the most common cancer (47%). Prayer was the most widely used CAM modality among study participants (100%). Our data also showed that males had a higher number (57%), and the age group 40-59 was the most common. The highest percentage of participants had a diploma or bachelor degree (54%). Similarly, those living in the city had the highest rates (69%). As well, our results revealed that the most prevalent reason for using CAM was to improve sleep and reduce pain (68%). Conclusions: This study revealed a prevalent CAM use among cancer patients in the city of Benghazi. It is necessary to promote a patient-centered approach to CAM use.

Keywords: Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), Cancer, Benghazi, Adult, pharmacoepidemiologic survey.