Osteoporosis knowledge among women of reproductive age in Ibadan North East Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Osteoporosis remains the most common metabolic bone disorder, with a disproportionate burden among females. However, effective management of osteoporosis remains suboptimal, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Nigeria, with critical shortages in healthcare resources. Primary prevention strategies targeted at young adults less than 30 years of age could delay the disease onset. This study investigated the knowledge of osteoporosis among women of reproductive age in Ibadan North East Local Government Area (LGA), Oyo State. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 393 women of reproductive age living in Ibadan North East LGA, using a semi-structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Knowledge questions were categorised as poor, fair, and good. Data were analysed using IBM/Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (version 23) software. The respondents' age was 28.3±9.2 years. Mass media (63.7%) was the main source of awareness of osteoporosis, while the majority (92.6%) had poor knowledge of osteoporosis. There was a significant relationship between the knowledge and level of literacy, age, income, and educational level (p<0.05). Knowledge of osteoporosis among the respondents is sub-optimal. To reduce the disease burden, there is a need for improved community awareness tailored to young and adult women on the risk factors and protective function of dietary consumption of calcium and vitamin D in preventing osteoporosis