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Dietary Supplement Use, Knowledge, and Perceptions Among Student Pharmacists
David R Axon1, Janka Vanova1, Courtney Edel1
1University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, Arizona.
American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education
|July 20, 2017
Summary
Student pharmacists use dietary supplements more than the general population, despite limited knowledge and perceived inadequacy of education on these products. Further education is recommended for student pharmacists regarding dietary supplements.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
- Pharmacy Education
Background:
- Dietary supplement use is prevalent, yet understanding of their efficacy and safety varies.
- Assessing knowledge and attitudes among healthcare professionals in training is crucial for informed practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- Compare dietary supplement usage between student pharmacists and the general population.
- Evaluate student pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and perceived effectiveness of dietary supplements.
- Explore student pharmacists' views on their formal education concerning dietary supplements.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study utilizing paper questionnaires administered to student pharmacists.
- Comparison of dietary supplement use data with findings from the 2007 National Health Interview Survey.
- Analysis of responses regarding knowledge, attitudes, and educational experiences.
Main Results:
- Over half (52%) of surveyed student pharmacists reported lifetime dietary supplement use, significantly higher than the general population (25%).
- Student pharmacists perceived supplement labels as unhelpful, research as inadequate, and supplements as non-essential.
- Students recognized the importance of supplement knowledge but felt their education was insufficient.
Conclusions:
- Dietary supplement consumption is higher among student pharmacists compared to the general public.
- Student pharmacists exhibit limited knowledge and a need for enhanced education on dietary supplements.
- Findings highlight a gap in pharmacy curricula regarding comprehensive dietary supplement education.
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