Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness Regarding Osteoporosis and its Risk Factors among Female University Students in Mirpur Azad Kashmir: A Questionnaire Based Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

To assess the knowledge and awareness of osteoporosis and its risk factors among female university students in Mirpur Azad Kashmir. A cross-sectional study was carried out in female university students in Mirpur Azad Kashmir using a self-administered questionnaire. Knowledge and awareness of osteoporosis was assessed using OKAT (Osteoporosis Knowledge Assessment Tool) and descriptive analysis by using SPSS (version 25). Pearson Chi-Square test (p < 0.05) was used to assess significance.Mean age of the participants was 22.45 + 1.279 years. Mean total score was 11.86 + 3.3. The overall score of knowledge was moderate (68.8%). There was a significantly high difference about risk factors, complications, and preventive measures of osteoporosis between the two groups (p = 0.000). Discipline and family history of disease were significantly associated with overall knowledge score. This study concluded that overall knowledge of osteoporosis among female students was moderate. A well-structured education programs must be added to curriculum to prevent osteoporosis in later stages.