Journal of Jiroft University of Medical Sciences

Introduction:Osteoporosis is a multi-factorial chronic disease which is considered as a major health problem, yet preventable one. So assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of the female students was the aim of this research.

Methods: This study is a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical one at 2014, where the population was female students of Mazandaran University of Medical Science in six affiliated schools whom were selected with randomized sampling. The data gathering tool was researchers-made one with proven reliability of Cronbach's alpha significant level (0.73) and validated with health science specialists and dietitians. The data were analyzed using SPSS Statistics V.18 software, Pearson & simple linear regression tests.

Results: 300 students were examined, with the average age of 23.5. The mean score of knowledge was 78.5 ± 0.9, and the mean score of attitude was 70.6 ± 11. About the relationship between knowledge and attitude, Pearson Correlation Coefficient equal to 0.5 was significant (P value <0.001) and with increased knowledge, attitude is also boosted. Furthermore, with increased education, knowledge has also improved. Alternatively, with increasing age (each one year), the knowledge amplified 0.5% (P value = 0/015), and with one educational level raise, knowledge increased 1.2% (P value = 0/04). Regarding correlation between attitude and demographic data, just "age" was significant and in line with it.

Conclusion: Female students had "high" level of knowledge yet "rather good" attitude about osteoporosis.   Nevertheless, for the most vital dimension (( "practice"), improper food habits plus poor physical activities are of the most significant challenges which to be considered  in the related policy-making, planning and actions.

Keywords: Osteoporosis, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice