Assessment of knowledge on osteoporosis among menopausal women residing at rural areas of Kutch: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background and Aim: Menopause can increase a woman’s risk of developing osteoporosis. The drop in oestrogen levels that occurs around the time of menopause results in increased bone loss. Hence the aim of the study was to determine the level of knowledge of pre-menopausal women regarding osteoporosis residing at rural area of Kutch. Material and Methods: Population in this study consists of pre-menopausal women who are in the age group of 30-45 years residing at rural area of Kutch. Sample for the study consists of 120 pre-menopausal women in the age group of 30-45 years and are residing in selected rural community areas of Kutch. Risk test and Knowledge questionnaire were administered to 60 subjects [BMI was checked with the help of the formula weight (kg)/height (meter) 2]. Weight and height were measured by the help of standardized weighing machine and inch tape.Results: The data depict that equal number of (35% each) premenopausal women are having primary and high school education, whereas rest (30%) of the pre-menopausal women are having college education. Less than half of the premenopausal women (38%) are having an income from Rs. 2001-4000 and Rs. 4001- 6000 (35%). Most of the women are (48%) at moderate risk of osteoporosis, 32% are at high risk, and the rest (20%) are at low risk of osteoporosis.Conclusion: Most of the women had poor knowledge regarding osteoporosis. Most of the women are at moderate risk of osteoporosis. Knowledge had significant association with demographic variables such as educational status and monthly income.