Osteoporosis Knowledge, Beliefs and Calcium Intake among College Students

Background/Purpose: Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by bone fragility resulting in risk of fracture. Osteoporotic fractures can lead to pain, disfigurement, disability, depression, isolation, dependence and death. Approximately ten million Americans have osteoporosis. Maximizing peak bone mineral density in young years is a major osteoporosis prevention strategy. Enhancing understanding of engagement in bone enhancement behaviors including calcium intake may assist in planning effective interventions. The purpose of this study was to determine osteoporosis knowledge, beliefs, and calcium intake among college students.

Method: Valid and reliable questionnaires, the Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale, the Osteoporosis Knowledge Test, and the Osteoporosis Preventing Behaviors Survey were disseminated to college students (n=792, 96% response rate). Analysis/Results: Forty-five percent of students perceived that osteoporosis was serious and 35% perceived that they were susceptible. Participants perceived benefits of calcium as positive and barriers to consuming calcium as minimal. Participants correctly recognized cheese (89%), broccoli (51%), yogurt (87 %), and ice cream (66%) as good sources of calcium. Only 11% recognized the correct amount of calcium required by adults and only 13% consumed adequate amounts of milk. Conclusions: Consuming adequate calcium crucial for bone health. Participants consumed inadequate amounts of calcium but perceived benefits of calcium intake and minimal barriers. Prevention programs should aim to improve calcium knowledge and intake.

Learner Objectives: After attending the sessions, participants will be able to: 1. Describe the problems associated with osteoporosis. 2. List osteoporosis prevention strategies. 3. Discuss beliefs, knowledge and calcium intake among college students in this study.