Abstract
We examined awareness of osteoporosis prevention among peri- and post-menopausal South Asian women attending two community centers in the Dallas/Fort-Worth Metroplex. We conducted a quasi-experimental study (final N = 61) assessing knowledge about osteoporosis among South Asian women (≥40 years). The mean age was 52.3 years (SD = 8.72). Over 50% were college educated and 64% had no health insurance. We administered a baseline knowledge test, followed by a health education intervention and, 2 weeks later, by a post-test. Participants received one point for each correct answer and scores were added (≤14). Participants showed a significant increase in osteoporosis knowledge post intervention (paired t 60 = −9.5, P < .01). For example, women reported highest knowledge gains on the following: adequate calcium intake is achievable from two glasses of milk a day; very thin women are at risk for developing osteoporosis, and family history of osteoporosis is a risk factor. Intervention completers were better prepared to prevent and manage osteoporosis. Results indicate the efficacy of educational intervention in improving osteoporosis awareness; and point to the potential for knowledge acquisition aimed at developing community-based prevention strategies at the community level.
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Shakil, A., Gimpel, N.E., Rizvi, H. et al. Awareness and Prevention of Osteoporosis Among South Asian Women. J Community Health 35, 392–397 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10900-010-9263-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10900-010-9263-4