The Effect of the Knowledge and Health Beliefs on Osteoporosis Preventive Health Behaviors among Middle-aged Women

중년여성의 골다공증에 대한 지식과 건강신념이 골다공증 예방행위에 미치는 영향

Purpose: This study investigated the effects of knowledge and health belief on osteoporosis preventive health behaviors. Methods: The subjects of this study were 266 middle-aged women. Data were collected using a self-reporting questionnaire with 101 questions. The period of data collection was from the 3rd of January to the 28th of February 2003. Data were analyzed using SPSS 10.0 PC+ program. Results: The results were summarized as follows: 1. The average score of knowledge about osteoporosis was 16.93 out of 27. Particularly, middle-aged women had knowledge more about osteoporosis prevention measures than about risk factors. 2. Knowledge, self efficacy and barriers were significantly correlated with osteoporosis preventive health behaviors. 3. As for the relationship between subjects' general characteristics and their health preventive behaviors, the size of living district, economic status, BMI. family history of osteoporosis and perception of health status were found to have significant effects on health preventive behaviors. Conclusions: According to the results presented above, preventive health behaviors may be promoted by increasing knowledge and perceived self-efficacy as well as decreasing individuals' perceived barriers through health education.