A Study on Osteoporosis Knowledge, Health Beliefs and Health Behaviors among Female College Students

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate osteoporosis knowledge, health beliefs, and influencing factors on health behaviors among female college students. Methods Using the Osteoporosis Quiz, the Health belief Scale, and the Health Behavior Questionnaire, data were collected from 314 female college students from 4 universities located in Chungcheong providence. Results The mean scores of knowledge and health belief were 12.7±3.81 and 90.9±12.66, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation between osteoporosis knowledge and health belief ( p <.001). Also, a statistically significant correlation was found between health belief and health behavior ( p <.001). According to the regression model, knowledge, perceived benefit, perceived barrier, family history of osteoporosis, and health interest explained 6.7% of total variance in health behavior. Conclusion Female college students should be taught to be aware of the importance of proper dietary intake and regular exercise as a way to maintain or promote the health of their bones so that they can prevent osteoporosis.