AN OSTEOPOROSIS PATIENT EDUCATION AND SCREENING-PROGRAM - RESULTS AND IMPLICATIONS

White women of varying ages, incomes and education were surveyed over a one year period to determine their knowledge of osteoporosis before and after an educational intervention, which included a specially prepared educational brochure and workshop and a bone density screening experience. Questionnaire responses indicated that even a modest educational program increased subjects' knowledge about osteoporosis and produced reported lifestyle changes in 60% of the subjects. Women identified as having below average bone density levels were more likely (86%) to report altered behavior than were those with average or above average bone density (69%). Improvements in knowledge occurred at all age, socioeconomic status and educational levels. These findings suggest that osteoporosis educational and screening programs can be effective in heightening the awareness of targeted individuals. It is proposed that similar programs should be utilized in a society-wide osteoporosis prevention campaign. © 1991.