Use of dietary supplement among the elderly in Yangon, Myanmar

The use of dietary supplement (DS) among the elderly has increased worldwide including Myanmar. This survey research aimed to explore the prevalence of DS use and factors associated with DS use among the elderly in Yangon, Myanmar. Two hundred elderly were systematically sampled from four wards in South Okkalapa Township, Yangon. Face-to-face interviews with a structured questionnaire were conducted in February 2020. Descriptive statistics, chi square test and a binary logistic regression were used for data analysis. Findings showed that DS use was highly prevalent among the elderly (71%; 95% CI 64.7-77.3).  The top three DS frequently used were multivitamins and minerals, vitamin B complex, and a combination of ginseng and multivitamins/minerals (43.6%, 12.8%, 11.3% respectively). The majority used only one DS, once daily, and between one and five years. Nearly half of them took DS to promote their health. They received DS from purchasing at pharmacies (45.1%), obtaining from family/relatives and friends (33.2%), and hospitals (18.5%). Nearly 75% reported that they consulted with their healthcare providers when taking DS. There were no any associations among independent variables (demographic factors, health behaviors, as well as health status) and DS use of the elderly. Some interventions by health care organizations might be created to raise awareness of appropriate use of DS, especially for the elderly who are at high risk group of negative consequences from drug-dietary interaction.