Cannabidiol: Knowledge, Beliefs, and Experiences of Patients With Cancer

Cannabidiol (CBD) is purported to work for a variety of therapeutic indications. Interest in CBD products has significantly increased as patients with cancer seek ways to improve symptom control and quality of life.

The purpose of this study was to explore patients' knowledge of and experience with CBD.

A panel of oncology nurse practitioners, an oncologist, and oncology pharmacy specialists developed a survey to capture information about patient knowledge and use of CBD. The initial survey was pilot tested and further refined, resulting in the final item survey. The final survey was administered to 100 participants undergoing or having completed cancer treatment and being followed in a supportive oncology care clinic at a large academic medical center.

Most patients learned about CBD through a family member or friend. The majority of patients had never tried CBD. The most common reported indications were pain, anxiety, and nausea. Of those who had not tried CBD, the most common reasons included lack of knowledge about CBD and providers not recommending CBD.