An assessment of the prevalence and practice of herbal medicine use among hypertensive patients accessing care in a semi-urban health facility in south-south Nigeria
Keywords:
Hypertension, Herbal medicine, Prevalence, PracticeAbstract
Background: Hypertension is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, affecting approximately 1.4 billion people globally in 2010, with a higher prevalence in low and middle-income countries. Despite the effectiveness of orthodox medicines (OM), many patients in developing countries turn to herbal medicine (HM), raising concerns regarding its safety and efficacy.
Objectives: The study aimed to assess the prevalence and practice of HM use among hypertensive patients and its association with sociodemographic characteristics in a semi-urban health facility in South-South Nigeria.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH), Oghara, involving 320 hypertensive patients selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected using pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaires covering sociodemographic characteristics, HM use, reasons for use, side effects, and consultation with healthcare providers. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to assess associations.
Results: Sixty-five percent of respondents reported using HM, with 81.7% using preparations of unknown composition. Commonly used herbs included garlic, ginger, and bitter kola. Sociocultural influences and recommendations from social networks were primary reasons for HM use. Challenges reported included difficulty accessing genuine HM, dosage determination, and potential interactions with OM. Sixty percent did not consult healthcare providers over HM use. Significant associations were found between HM use and age, marital status, and gender.
Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of HM use among hypertensive patients in the study area, influenced by sociodemographic factors. There is a need for healthcare providers to engage patients regarding HM use to ensure safe and effective hypertension management.
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