Abstract
The consumption of aphrodisiac dietary supplements (ADS) is increasing among young adults globally, driven by social pressures, peer influence, and media exposure. While often perceived as natural and harmless, these products frequently contain undeclared pharmacologically active substances, exposing consumers to significant health risks. However, data on young people's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding responsible ADS consumption in sub-Saharan Africa remain scarce. This study aimed to assess KAP regarding responsible ADS consumption among young adults aged 18-35 years in the Lemba Health Zone, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and to identify determinants of consumption. We conducted a convergent mixed-methods study between March and June 2026. The quantitative component was a cross-sectional analytical survey of 350 randomly selected young adults (18-35 years). Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire (Cronbach's α=0.82). The qualitative component employed a phenomenological approach with 35 purposively sampled participants through semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses (Chi-square tests), and multivariate logistic regression. Qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Results were integrated through triangulation. The sample was predominantly male (88.6%), with a median age of 24 years (IQR: 19-30). While 88.6% were aware of ADS, only 27.4% knew about existing regulations. Attitudes were ambivalent: 56.6% considered consumption socially acceptable, and 40.6% deemed it necessary for sexual performance. Consumption prevalence was 40.3%, with only 28.0% classified as responsible consumers. In multivariate analysis, significant independent determinants of consumption included: low education level (primary vs. university, aOR=1.52, 95%CI: 1.02-2.26, p=0.04), product awareness (aOR=2.17, 95%CI: 1.12-4.20, p=0.01), social acceptability perception (aOR=1.52, 95%CI: 1.15-2.01, p=0.003), and belief in effectiveness (aOR=1.44, 95%CI: 1.09-1.91, p=0.01). Qualitative findings revealed superficial knowledge, ambivalent attitudes, and practices characterized by self-medication and peer influence. These findings underscore the need to strengthen health education, regulatory frameworks, and the involvement of healthcare professionals to promote more responsible use of ADS among young adults.
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