Objective:
This study aimed to assess the awareness of osteoporosis among the general population in Bisha, Saudi Arabia.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2023 in Bisha, Saudi Arabia. A web-based self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a total of 808 participants aged 18 years and older who lived in Bisha. Sociodemographic data were collected and the participants had to answer 10 questions about osteoporosis and its risk factors.
Results:
Out of the 808 participants, 693 (85.8%) were males and 115 (14.2%) were females, with a mean age of 35±10 years. The results showed that 44.6% study population had a good knowledge regarding osteoporosis and its risk factors. Age, education, and employment were associated with higher knowledge of osteoporosis and its risk factors. Most participants were aware of some risk factors, such as vitamin D deficiency, low calcium intake, and physical inactivity contributing to the development of osteoporosis.
Conclusion:
Only 44.6% study population had a good knowledge regarding osteoporosis and its risk factors. It showed that several participants' characteristics, such as advanced age, high educational level, and employment, were associated with higher knowledge of osteoporosis and its risk factors. Strategies to increase the awareness of osteoporosis should include implementing health promotion interventions especially educational programs that would help in preventing osteoporosis and decrease the burden of this disease in the future.
Key words: Osteoporosis, awareness, perception, risk factor, Saudi Arabia
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