Use of Dietary and Herbal Supplements among Elderly Ghanaians in the Keta Municipality

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Date

2015

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Volume Title

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Journal of Human Nutrition & Food Science

Abstract

Background: Globally, dietary and herbal supplements (DHS) are used frequently by adults and especially the elderly to control and prevent chronic disease. However, little is known about DHS use in sub-Saharan Africa. We estimated the prevalence and frequency of DHS use among elderly residents of the Keta Municipality in Ghana. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was administered to 580 male and female elderly (65+ years) residents in the Keta municipal area in the Volta region. Respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling approach involving a random selection of sub-municipalities, communities, and individuals at each level. The survey tool developed for the study collected recall data on socio-demographic characteristics; DHS use behavior, health history, and reasons for using DHS. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent determinants of DSH use. Results: About 42% of respondents reported the use of a DHS in the last month. Almost 90% of users reported the use of multivitamins or mineral supplements. More than 90% reported taking their supplement daily and more than 65% of users took supplements at least twice daily. Elderly who have completed secondary school or a higher level of education were significantly more likely to use any DHS (OR=4.9; 95% CI: 2.08, 4.93). Those who were regularly taking medicines for any diagnosed disease were more likely to also take supplements (OR=17.9; 95% CI: 10.0, 32.0). The main reason for using DHS was to improve health (90.5%). About half of DHS users identified health workers as their prescribing source (59.5%). However, 30% of all users indicated self-prescription for DHS. Conclusion: Multivitamin supplements and to a lesser extent, herbal supplements are used regularly by almost half of elderly Ghanaians residing in the Keta Municipality. The public health system needs to recognize this frequent use of DHS and to assure safety in its use among this critical age group.

Description

Research Article

Keywords

Dietary, Supplement, Ghana, Elderly, Herbal, Micronutrients

Citation

Aryeetey RNO, Tamakloe SM (2015) Use of Dietary and Herbal Supplements among Elderly Ghanaians in the Keta Municipality. J Hum Nutr Food Sci 3(4): 1072.

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