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SUPPLEMENT USE STUDY
A Department of Defense Research Project
Frequently Asked Questions
If your question is not answered here, please contact us using one of the contact methods listed below.
Why does this project use a dot-org rather than dot-mil website?

Although dot-mil websites are more clearly recognized as authorized DoD websites, we are using a dot-org website so that you can complete the survey anywhere anytime. This website is a secure encrypted way to log on, complete the survey, and keep your data safe.

How will your data be protected against any risks?

All information collected through the Internet survey is done by using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) data transmission lines. SSL encrypts, or scrambles, all survey data sent over the Internet. Information will only be understandable when it reaches the investigator's database. When your data are entered into computer files for analysis, your answers will be identified only by a special study identification number known to you and research team members. Your social security number and any other Personally Identifiable Information (PII) will be removed from your survey and data file. Even if someone outside the research team broke into the data files, it would be impossible for them to identify your data. To minimize the risk of anyone breaking into the data files, those files will be maintained on DoD computers protected by all the measures required by DoD computer security regulations. Individuals from official government agencies may inspect research records to ensure the rights and safety of all research participants are protected. All data will be maintained only until all research questions have been addressed.

Can I participate if I received an invitation but have separated from the military?

This study is for active duty personnel. Unfortunately, if you received a request to participate and have separated, we ask that you do not complete the survey. Instead, please reach out to us through one of our contact options below to help us keep our rosters up to date. Thank you!

What do I have to do to participate?

You are being asked to do the following: Complete a single survey online. The survey will take about 15-20 minutes to complete. The survey contains questions on your use of any supplements, amount of exercise, amount of sleep, and military experiences including deployments. After you consent to participate and complete the survey, demographic information (age, gender, race/ethnicity, rate/rank) will also be obtained from DoD data sources and merged with your survey responses. Your data will be confidentially maintained and will not be assessable by your command or others not involved in this research study.

Do you have to participate?

No, you do not. Your participation must be completely voluntary. If you decide to participate, you can stop at any time you wish or skip any question you choose. If you choose not to participate, you will not lose any benefit to which you are otherwise entitled.

What alternatives are there to study participation?

Your alternative to participation in this study is not to participate. However, it is important that a large representative sample participate in order to evaluate the use of supplements in the military to provide the DoD with important information about the types of supplements being used by Service members and the reasons for their use. Please remember, this study is not clinical care and you should see your health care provider for any and all healthcare issues.

What are your rights if you take part in this study?

Taking part in this study is your choice. If you decide to take part, you may still leave the study at any time. No matter what decision you make, there will be no penalty to you and you will not lose any benefit to which you are otherwise entitled.

Can I participate if I did not receive an invitation?

Unfortunately, if you were not invited to participate you will not have access to the survey. Also, the survey page requires a unique password and study identification number which were sent with the invitation to participate.

Will you be provided medical care based on your responses?

No, this is a survey study and data collected will not be used to make decisions about treatment that any individual should receive. If you feel that you might need medical care or counseling, for any reason, you should contact the appropriate health care personnel.