Use of dietary supplements and the knowledge-awareness level of patients on this topic among adult patients admitted to family health centers in the central district of edirne province

This study aims to investigate the use of dietary supplements and the level of knowledge and awareness on this subject among adult patients who applied to family health centers in the central district of Edirne. A total of 403 volunteer patients participated in the study.Data were collected through a questionnaire that included sociodemographic characteristics and items evaluating participants' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding dietary supplements. For data analysis, descriptive statistics were used, and differences between groups were assessed using the Chi-square test where appropriate. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Among the 403 adult participants, 41.7% reported using dietary supplements. The most commonly used supplements were multivitamins, vitamin D, fish oil, and vitamin C. Supplement use was more common among divorced/widowed individuals, those with comorbidities, and those who regularly underwent health check-ups. Participants generally believed that nutrients from food were insufficient, that supplements could prevent chronic diseases, but were less likely to believe they were effective against cancer. A high proportion supported the idea that supplements should be used under physician supervision and monitored with laboratory tests. Trust in online purchasing and product labeling was low. Knowledge levels about vitamins and minerals varied; vitamin A and C were well known, while awareness of vitamin D, B group vitamins, zinc, magnesium, vitamins K and E was low. Awareness of selenium, chromium, glutathione, coenzyme Q10, and glucosamine was particularly limited. Among natural products, probiotics were the most widely recognized, whereas omega fatty acids and propolis were less well known. In conclusion, it is crucial that family physicians, as part of primary healthcare services, play an active role in guiding individuals regarding the use of dietary supplements, providing appropriate laboratory evaluations when needed, and enhancing health literacy through effective patient education. In order to ensure the safe, evidence-based, and personalized use of dietary supplements, there is a clear need for structured informational and counseling initiatives centered around family medicine on a community-wide scale. Keywords: family medicine, dietary supplements, health literacy.