Evaluating Cancer Patients’ Knowledge of Chemotherapy: Identifying Communication Gaps and Medication Errors in General Hospital of Thamar City

Khalil, Adel H.; Al-Akhali, Khaled; Sakran, Faiz; Al-Jamei, Sayida

doi:10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.5.1679

Evaluating Cancer Patients’ Knowledge of Chemotherapy: Identifying Communication Gaps and Medication Errors in General Hospital of Thamar City

Document Type : Research Articles

Authors

¹ Department of Clinical Pharmacy. School of Medical Science and Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Sana’a, Yemen.

² Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Thamar University, Thamar, Yemen.

10.31557/APJCP.2026.27.5.1679

Abstract

Objective: In Yemen, there is a notable lack of data regarding cancer patients’ knowledge of chemotherapy and the communication gaps that may contribute to medication errors. To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess cancer patients’ understanding of chemotherapy in Thamar City, aiming to evaluate their knowledge, communication practices, and the impact of these factors on treatment-related errors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between December 2024 and March 2025 at the General Hospital in Thamar City. Adult cancer patients who were either undergoing chemotherapy or receiving follow-up care were included. Data were collected through structured, face-to-face interviews conducted by trained clinical pharmacists using a validated, culturally adapted questionnaire. The survey covered socio-demographic characteristics, chemotherapy knowledge, adherence practices, communication behaviors, preferred information sources, and experiences with medication errors. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28. Results: Of the 209 cancer patients surveyed, the majority were female (65.1%), aged over 50 (58.4%), and unemployed (90.0%). While 87.1% demonstrated good knowledge about chemotherapy, only 9.1% could name their medications, and misunderstandings about managing side effects remained. Despite high treatment adherence, communication challenges were prevalent-71.8% found medical terminology difficult to understand, and 24.4% experienced medication errors. Knowledge levels were significantly associated with gender, education, and employment status (p < 0.05). Conclusion: While most cancer patients demonstrated good overall knowledge about chemotherapy, significant challenges persist particularly in medication-specific awareness and side effect management. Communication gaps, including unclear explanations and limited patient engagement, were associated with medication errors. Enhancing communication practices and delivering patient-centered education can play a crucial role in reducing errors and supporting optimal treatment outcomes.

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