Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Analysis of Dietary Supplements Among Pharmacists: A Promising Outlook from Yazd, Iran.

Objective: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) of pharmacists in Yazd, Iran, regarding dietary supplements (DSs).

Methods: A cross-sectional survey assessed KAP regarding DS among pharmacists and pharmacy students in Yazd community pharmacies. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire covering demographics, DS knowledge, attitudes toward DS and counseling, and practices. Expert panel review confirmed face and content validity; reliability was established (Cronbach's alpha). SPSS 16.0 was used for statistical analysis, including descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations, and percentages) for KAP scores, Pearson correlations for KAP relationships, and t-tests/ANOVA for associations with demographics/professional factors. Significance was set at P < 0.05.

Findings: Significant correlations were observed among all KAP parameters. Pharmacists' knowledge and practice scores were significantly associated with age, educational level, years of experience, and professional title. Attitudes toward counseling on DS were also considerably linked to professional titles. Notably, a substantial majority (91.8%) of pharmacists expressed a positive attitude toward their role in DS counseling.

Conclusion: This study highlights the interrelation of knowledge, practice, and attitudes regarding DS among pharmacists in Yazd and their association with demographic and professional factors. The overwhelmingly positive attitude toward DS counseling suggests a promising foundation for enhancing pharmacists' engagement. To realize this potential fully, targeted interventions to improve knowledge and practice, particularly among younger and less experienced pharmacists, are warranted.