In recent years, the consumption of vitamin and mineral supplements (VMS) has increased in various patient groups, especially among people with cancer. This study aims to assess and compare the awareness and attitudes toward VMS among healthy individuals and cancer patients. A structured questionnaire was distributed to both cancer patients and a healthy control group collecting information about their sociodemographic profiles, knowledge, and perspectives regarding VMS use. Among the 778 respondents, 217 were cancer patients. The prevalence of VMS use was significantly higher among cancer patients (60.4%) compared to the control group (32.8%). Patients with advanced-stage cancer reported a higher tendency to use VMS. The intake of vitamin B12, vitamin D, folic acid, iron, and calcium was significantly higher among cancer patients than in the healthy population. Specifically, subjects with gastric cancer showed an increased usage of vitamin B complex and folic acid, whereas breast cancer patients had a higher intake of vitamin D and calcium. VMS consumption was higher among cancer patients than in the control group. Living in an urban area and having advanced-stage cancer were identified as factors influencing VMS use among cancer patients. The primary motivation for supplement use among cancer patients was physician recommendation and perceived benefits, whereas the control group primarily relied on media sources for information. The findings suggest that the effectiveness of VMS could be optimized when used under medical supervision and appropriate guidance.
