Supplement use among a diverse sample of perimenopausal and menopausal women in rural Hawaiʻi.

Abstract

Introduction: Supplement use is common among women experiencing menopause and perimenopause. Previous studies have identified regional, cultural, and ethnic differences in supplement use patterns and have identified a high prevalence of supplement use among rural populations. The objective of this study was to characterize supplement use among an ethnically diverse population of perimenopausal and menopausal women living in a rural region of Hawaiʻi in the US.

Methods: From May to August 2023, women aged over 40 years presenting for care at an academic women's health clinic were recruited to participate in this cross-sectional study. A 10-minute survey including questions concerning demographic characteristics and supplement use was administered. Descriptive statistics were used to describe data obtained from the survey.

Results: One hundred participants completed the survey. Of these, most participants identified as Asian, White, or Native Hawaiian. Ninety-four percent of respondents reported using at least one supplement in the previous 6 months. Most participants (60%) used four or more supplements, and the mean monthly cost was US$55 (A$83). The most commonly reported supplements included vitamin D, calcium, a multivitamin, and magnesium. Health professionals were the most commonly identified source of information regarding supplement use (69%). The most common motivations for supplement use were promotion of general health (51%) and replacement of dietary deficiencies (11%).

Conclusion: The prevalence of supplement use among perimenopausal and menopausal women in rural Hawaiʻi is higher than previously published measures of supplement use among similarly aged women in the continental US, the UK, and Canada. In the setting of such widespread use, clinicians caring for this population may consider initiating thoughtful discussions with patients on the risks and benefits of using these products.