[Health beliefs regarding osteoporosis among older adults: validation of the Dutch version of the Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale].

OBJECTIVE

The Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale (OHBS) was developed to assess health beliefs about osteoporosis. This questionnaire consists of 42 items divided into seven subscales including seriousness, susceptibility, health motivation, calcium intake, and exercise. The aim of this study was to validate the OHBS in Dutch.

METHODS

Dutch-speaking individuals aged over 65 years, without cognitive problems, were included in the study. Translation of the OHBS into Dutch was conducted based on international guidelines for translating a validated questionnaire into another language. A subgroup of individuals repeated the questionnaire after a period of at least seven days.

RESULTS

During the translation process, no significant issues were encountered. All translation discrepancies were discussed and resolved through consensus. The results demonstrate strong test-retest reliability (Spearman's rho 0.772, p‹0.001) and internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.828). The mean duration to complete the questionnaire ranges between five and ten minutes.

CONCLUSIONS

The Dutch version of the OHBS is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring health beliefs regarding osteoporosis. More knowledge about these health beliefs is crucial for improving communication regarding osteoporosis and fracture prevention. Moreover, the instrument can be used to identify individuals who would benefit from educational interventions.