Knowledge Awareness and Perception about Osteoporosis among Housekeeping Employees – A Survey

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a serious health concern that affects millions of people around the world, and India is not an exception. Osteoporosis is a common skeletal disease characterised by low bone mass and deterioration of the microarchitecture of bone tissue, with a consequent increase in the bone fragility and increased susceptibility to trauma fractures. Awareness and perceptions of belief and susceptibility in the seriousness of a disease can help in its prevention and control. It includes a questionnaire based study. The survey was conducted among 150 housekeeping employees of age group 45 and above from a private college. The results were obtained and statistically analysed through SPSS software, chi square test was done to check the association and a p value of 0.05 was said to be statistically significant. Osteoporosis is considered to be the most common skeletal disorder affecting humans with high prevalence, worldwide. About 73% of employees were aware of osteoporosis in which 45% of women had experienced bone pain and fracture. Fracture is one of the most serious consequences of osteoporosis that hinders the patient’s quality of life. About 75% of employees have moderate awareness about low calcium or high salt intake and family history predispose a person to osteoporosis. The current study concluded that the knowledge on osteoporosis risk factors, exercise and calcium intake among housekeeping employees could be considered moderate. Furthermore, education of the public regarding prevention of osteoporosis must be incorporated in the health services.