Knowledge, attitude, and practice towards postmenopausal osteoporosis among postmenopausal women: A cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE

Postmenopausal osteoporosis, affecting 33 % of women over 60 in China, increases fracture risks and significantly impacts quality of life. This condition leads to physical disability and psychological distress, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of postmenopausal women concerning postmenopausal osteoporosis and explore associated factors.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 29 to September 8, 2024, at the First People's Hospital of Bengbu City using a self-administered questionnaire to assess KAP, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and nonparametric tests.

RESULTS

A total of 459 valid participants in the study, of whom 166 (36.17 %) were diagnosed with postmenopausal osteoporosis. Among those diagnosed with osteoporosis, 65 (39.16 %) received systematic treatment. The mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 10.03 ± 5.47 (range: 0-28), 28.03 ± 3.07 (range: 8-40), and 21.87 ± 5.10 (range: 7-35), respectively.

CONCLUSION

While postmenopausal women demonstrated insufficient knowledge and inadequate practices, targeted educational efforts may help improve osteoporosis-related behaviors and outcomes. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to improve osteoporosis-related knowledge and encourage proactive behaviors in managing the disease.