We need choice on supplements

To the editor:

Lately the press has given much attention to the "dangers" of dietary supplements. Many of these reports call for the repeal of the Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act, a law that allows consumers greater access to information concerning the use of vitamins and herbs. Much of the information that is being reported is misleading and designed to make the general public believe that dietary supplements are dangerous and should be classified the same as prescription drugs.

There are 158 million Americans who use some type of alternative or complementary medicine, including vitamin and herbal supplements, spending over $30 million a year not covered by medical insurance. Research shows that consumers may benefit from taking vitamins. Numerous studies support the use of supplements in the prevention of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, macular degeneration and Alzheimer's as well as many other diseases.

As Americans, we should have the freedom to make our own choices in health care, but this right is being threatened by the powers of big business and the misinformation in the media. Congress needs accurate, responsible information on the benefits and safety of supplements, facts they are not getting from the medical industry. Call your representatives and senators and ask them to attend "Herbal Alternative," an informative forum for members of Congress, on Thursday. Dr. James Duke, a 30-year veteran of the USDA, will present scientific evidence and the 2,000-year-old safety record of herbal medicine.

BECKY BROWN

Cape Girardeau