Knowledge, attitude, and practice toward osteoporosis among middle-aged and elderly women in northeastern coastal areas of China

Abstract

Osteoporosis is highly prevalent among postmenopausal and elderly women due to hormonal changes and aging-related bone loss. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding osteoporosis among middle-aged and elderly women in northeastern coastal China. This cross-sectional study included women aged ≥ 50 years between December 2022 and March 2023. A structured questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics and KAP dimensions. A total of 693 valid questionnaires were included. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 9.03 ± 2.72 (range: 0–13), 36.92 ± 3.81 (range: 9–45), and 44.13 ± 5.24 (range: 12–62), respectively. Knowledge scores were significantly associated with education level ( P < 0.001), residence ( P < 0.001), occupation ( P < 0.001), and family history of osteoporosis ( P < 0.001). Path analysis indicated that higher knowledge scores were positively associated with attitudes toward osteoporosis (β = 0.41, 95% CI 0.36–0.46) and with preventive practices (β = 0.07, 95% CI 0.01–0.13), whereas attitude showed no clear direct association with practice. Middle-aged and elderly women in northeastern coastal China demonstrated moderate levels of knowledge, positive attitudes, and proactive behaviors toward osteoporosis. Targeted educational interventions focused on women with lower levels of education and those living in islands or rural coastal areas are essential.