Vitamin C Bioequivalence from Gummy and Caplet Sources in Healthy Adults: A Randomized-Controlled Trial

Perspective: Planning and Conducting Statistical Analyses for Human Nutrition Randomized Controlled Trials: Ensuring Data Quality and Integrity

Appropriate planning, execution, and reporting of statistical methods and results is critical for research transparency, validity, and reproducibility. This paper provides an overview of best practices for developing a statistical analysis plan a priori, conducting statistical analyses, and reporting statistical methods and results for human nutrition randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Readers are referred to the other NURISH (NUtrition inteRventIon reSearcH) publications for detailed information about the preparation and conduct of human nutrition RCTs. Collectively, the NURISH series outlines best practices for conducting human nutrition research.

The shifting preferences of patients and physicians in nonsurgical hair loss treatment

BACKGROUND

There are multiple etiologies for hair thinning and loss, including genetic, hormonal, immune, scaring, and infectious. Hair loss treatment involves both surgical intervention and nonsurgical therapies such as pharmaceuticals, haircare products, vitamins, and low-level laser therapy (LLLT). While pharmaceuticals have been extensively researched, the efficacy of other therapies remains inconclusive. With so many available treatments, consumers often research their options using search engines such as Google and/or seek help from hair restoration physicians.

AIMS

To identify and analyze changing trends in international consumer and physician interest in nonsurgical hair loss therapies.

METHODS

Worldwide trends in Google searches of hair loss products (2004-2020) were compared with product prescription frequency surveys from members of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (2004-2019, ~29% response rate).

RESULTS

Minoxidil and finasteride were the most prescribed hair loss treatments, while "minoxidil" was the most "Googled" term. Generic products were searched more often than their brand counterparts. Nutritionals and haircare prescriptions increased over time. LLLT was also increasingly prescribed, with Internet searches increasing following government regulation announcements. The COVID-19 pandemic initially negatively affected hair loss treatment searches, which have since returned to, and surpassed, pre-pandemic levels.

CONCLUSION

Regulations and social media have influence on consumer interest in hair loss products. A weak economy and coronavirus fears may persuade consumers to turn to cheaper hair loss treatment alternatives. Hair restoration specialists need to keep abreast of online trends to communicate effectively with their patients. Patients should be cognizant of the safety and efficacy of hair restoration treatments.