KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES RELATED TO DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS IN UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS

Abstract

Background: The global rise in dietary supplement use is particularly notable among health-oriented populations, including university students in medical and allied health fields. These individuals, as future healthcare providers, play a crucial role in shaping community health behaviors. However, inconsistent knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to supplement use—especially in developing countries like Pakistan—raise concerns about safety, efficacy, and public health outcomes.

Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding dietary supplements among undergraduate female students enrolled in health sciences programs at Peoples University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women (PUMHSW), Nawabshah.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 400 undergraduate students from BSPH, DPT, Pharm-D, and BSN departments using a non-probability quota sampling approach. Data were collected via a structured, pre-validated, self-administered questionnaire developed in English, covering socio-demographic details, knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed verbal consent was secured. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, and results were reported using descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations.

Results: Out of 400 participants, 100% were female with a mean age of 20.85 ± 1.66 years. Supplement use was reported by 71.3%, with 60.5% using multivitamins and minerals. Preventive benefits were acknowledged by 82%, but 62.5% incorrectly believed supplements could treat diseases. Only 46% were aware of potential side effects. Simultaneous use of more than one supplement was reported by 26%, and 24.5% experienced adverse effects. Positive attitudes were common, with 67% believing supplements are necessary for everyone and 73% perceiving them as low-risk.

Conclusion: While attitudes toward dietary supplements were generally positive, substantial knowledge deficits and risky usage behaviors were evident. Targeted educational strategies are urgently needed to promote safe, evidence-based supplement use among future healthcare professionals.