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Objectives This study aimed to assess the effect of educational program concerning osteoporosis on the knowledge, attitude, and practice among secondary school female students (Shebin El-Kom City, Menoufia Governorate). Background Osteoporosis is a systemic disease characterized by a decrease in skeletal bone mass. It is considered a worldwide health problem, including Egypt. Raising awareness about its burden and risk factors is an essential step in modifying behaviors related to it. Participants and methods The study was conducted on 302 secondary school female students. They were chosen randomly from three secondary schools during the scholastic year 2013/2014. A predesigned questionnaire was used to test their knowledge, attitude, and practice on osteoporosis (a pretest). In addition, a health education program was conducted for improving their knowledge, attitude, and practice. A post-test was conducted after 3 months for 294 of the pretest participants (response rate = 97.4%). Results The mean score of knowledge on osteoporosis risk factors, diagnosis, and protective measures (e.g. nutritional and physical activity) showed a significant improvement. The mean score of attitude as regards calcium-containing food and barrier to have calcium, healthy intentions such as attitude toward disease (regular exercise and barriers to exercise) showed significant improvement. Healthy nutritional practice and regular exercise showed significant improvement after osteoporosis preintervention and postintervention program. Conclusion The applied health education program improved female secondary school students' knowledge, attitude, and practice as regards osteoporosis, which is a cornerstone in its prevention through modification of related risk factors. |
