Use of Select Supplements Could Save $5 Billion in Health Care Costs

WASHINGTON--The use of dietary supplements containing omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs), lutein and zeaxanthin by U.S. adults over 65 could save the U.S. health care system up to $5.6 billion over the next five years, according to a new report by The Lewin Group. This is the second such report commissioned by the Dietary Supplement Education Alliance (DSEA); a 2004 Lewin study concluded the use of calcium and folic acid supplements by U.S. adults could result in over $15 billion in health care savings.

"With health care costs for Americans 65 and older expected to reach $16 trillion by 2030, the need for innovative and preventive health care solutions is clearer than ever," said Elliott Balbert, president of DSEA. "More than 187 million consumers rely on daily use of dietary supplements, and the supplement industry is pleased that this study reinforces the efficacy and health benefits of their usage."

In its study, the Lewin Group reviewed existing research on the impact of omega-3 fatty acids on coronary heart disease (CHD) and of lutein plus zeaxanthin on age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The organization estimated between 2006 and 2010, daily intake of 1,800 mg of omega-3s could reduce the occurrence of CHD among adults over 65, avoiding more than 384,000 hospitalizations and physicians' fees, netting $3.1 billion in savings. On the eye health side, five-year net savings from reduced progression of AMD resulting in community or nursing home dependency was estimated at $2.5 billion.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already issued a qualified health claim for intake of omega-3 fatty acids and heart health; the agency is currently reviewing a claim for lutein and eye health.

Results of the Lewin Group survey were presented at a press conference Nov. 2 in Washington. Also at the press event, Rep. Chris Cannon (R-Utah) announced the creation of a bipartisan caucus on dietary supplements, which he will co-chair with Rep. Frank Pallone (D-N.J.). Cannon introduced legislation earlier this year to allow the costs of some dietary supplements to be offset by Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).

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