Dietary Supplement Use by American Women: Challenges in Assessing Patterns of Use, Motives and Costs

摘要: The 1994 passage of Public Law 103-417, the Dietary Supplement and Health Education Act, resulted in an exponential increase number variety dietary supplements available for over-the-counter purchase. Surveys conducted on random samples U.S. residents have shown that approximately half all American women use regularly, but very little is known about risks benefits long-term widespread supplement use. To accurately evaluate health effects use, it important to characterize usage patterns, motivations costs However, this a considerable challenge because accurate data are difficult collect, product databases with consistent reliable information lacking survey instruments or interview protocols currently may not capture selection specific conditions, out-of-pocket expenditures. Future research would benefit from collaborative efforts among governmental scientists, academic scientists industry improve collection methods develop appropriate tools analysis.