Patterns of Supplement Use in Prostate Cancer Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nutritional Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Supplement use is prevalent among cancer survivors.
• Limited data exists on supplement use patterns in Irish men with prostate cancer (PCa).
• Understanding these patterns is crucial for survivorship care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the prevalence of herbal, vitamin, and mineral supplement use.
• To assess symptom burden in relation to supplement use.
• To identify associations between supplement use and PCa-related symptoms in Irish men.

Main Methods:

• A national cross-sectional online survey was conducted in May-June 2025.
• Data collected included demographics, clinical history, symptoms, and supplement usage details.
• 74 responses were analyzed, with 34 deemed eligible for the study.

Main Results:

• 85% of eligible participants reported supplement use, primarily vitamins/minerals (82%).
• Vitamin D was the most common vitamin (50%), and turmeric the leading herbal supplement (18%).
• Erectile dysfunction and reduced libido were the most prevalent symptoms (85%).

Conclusions:

• Herbal and vitamin/mineral supplement use is highly prevalent among Irish men with prostate cancer.
• Vitamin D is the most frequently used vitamin supplement.
• There is a significant need for improved communication and clinical guidance regarding supplement use in PCa survivorship care.