DOI: 10.5176/2315-4330_WNC14.41
Authors: Dr. B. Sreelekha
Abstract: Aim: To determine the effectiveness of an osteoporosis prevention program on calcium intake and bone mineral density among female school teachers.
Introduction: Osteoporosis afflicts millions of people particularly women around the world and it is on the steady rise in India. Adequate knowledge on the disease promotes behavioral modification that improves bone mineral density (BMD), curtails the disease in its beginning and prevents associated complications ensuring quality life. Osteoporosis prevention program (OPP) focuses on sensitization of one’s BMD and imparting knowledge on osteoporosis preventive measures.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial involving 170 female school teachers with left calcaneal BMD T- score ranging from ─1 to ─2.5 as per Quantitative Ultra Sound (n = 85 in study group; n = 85 in control group) was used. The pretest included: assessment of background variables and the practice of dietary calcium intake using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and 24-hours dietary recall method. OPP was carried out as a group teaching on disease condition and its prevention emphasizing on dietary calcium intake and exercises to the study group. Reinforcement was carried out to the study group in person by the investigator at regular intervals, in addition to the issuing of booklets. The posttest was executed at 30 days, six months and one year post intervention. Also, BMD was measured at one year post intervention. Results: The RMANOVA revealed an improvement in the dietary calcium intake among the study group compared to the control group (p<0.001). The independent t test revealed a decreased BMD mean scores in both the groups with less reduction in the study group compared to the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: A multidisciplinary education program which encompasses BMD sensitization, teaching, issuing of booklets and reinforcements are found to be effective in delaying the development of osteoporosis. Hence, it could be implemented in hospitals and community to have an impact on knowledge and behaviors which in turn help to prevent osteoporosis.
Keywords: bone mineral density; osteoporosis; osteopenia; women’s health; calcium intake
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