A descriptive study of knowledge, beliefs and practices regarding osteoporosis among female medical school entrants in Sri Lanka

BACKGROUND Osteoporosis is a significant problem in rapidly ageing populations in Asian regions. It causes a significant personal and societal impact and increases the burden on health care services. OBJECTIVES Aim of this study is to determine the knowledge, beliefs and practices regarding osteoporosis among young females entering medical schools in Sri Lanka. METHODS This is a descriptive cross sectional study conducted amongst 186 female medical school entrants of the Faculties of Medicine, Universities of Colombo and Kelaniya from September to December 2010. A self administered questionnaire was used to assess knowledge, beliefs and practices on osteoporosis, including a food frequency chart to assess the calcium intake. RESULTS The mean age was 20.7 +/- 2.1 years. Majority of the participants (51.6%, n = 96) had an average score (40-60) on the knowledge test, while 40.8% (n = 76) had a poor score (<40). However, in depth knowledge on risk factors, and protective factors was lacking. Perceived susceptibility for osteoporosis was low with only 13.9% (n = 26) of women agreeing that their chances of getting osteoporosis are high. The mean calcium intake was 528 mg/day and only 18.8% (n = 35) of the participants achieved the Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) for Calcium. Exercise was grossly inadequate in the majority and only 13.6%( n = 23) engaged in the recommended exercises. Only 3.8% (n =7) of the participants currently engaged in specific behaviours to improve bone health while 10.8% (n = 20) had thought of routinely engaging in such behaviours. CONCLUSIONS Although majority of participants had a modest level of knowledge on osteoporosis, there were gaps in their knowledge in relation to risk factors, protective factors and on the insidious nature of osteoporosis. Perceived susceptibility for osteoporosis was low. Practices towards preventing Osteoporosis were inadequate.