Vitamin supplement use in a hospital-based population

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Vitamin supplements are widely used, yet patterns of use and associated factors require further investigation.
• Understanding vitamin supplement consumption is crucial for public health initiatives and nutritional guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and patterns of vitamin supplement use in a hospital-based population.
• To identify demographic and lifestyle factors associated with vitamin supplement consumption.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted on approximately 3,600 individuals (2,461 men, 1,181 women) from a hospital setting.
• Vitamin supplement histories were collected, including types and combinations of supplements used.
• Statistical analyses examined associations between supplement use and education, Quetelet Index, smoking, and alcohol consumption.

Main Results:

• Multivitamins were the most frequently used supplements (32% men, 37% women), followed by vitamins C and E.
• Vitamin C and E combination was common among multivitamin users.
• Higher education levels were positively associated with vitamin supplement use in both sexes.
• A negative association was observed between vitamin supplement use and Quetelet Index among women.
• No significant associations were found with smoking status or alcohol consumption.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin supplement use, particularly multivitamins, is prevalent in this hospital-based population.
• Education is a key determinant of vitamin supplement use, while body mass index (Quetelet Index) is inversely related in women.
• Further research can explore the clinical implications of these usage patterns.