Date Approved

2008

Degree Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department or School

Nursing

Committee Member

Tsu-Yin Wu, RN, PhD, Chair

Committee Member

April Bigelow, MS, RN

Abstract

Osteoporosis, a degenerative bone disease, is a preventable disease. The purpose of this study was to determine if an educational intervention would increase knowledge and influence women to change their behaviors (i.e., exercise and dietary calcium intake) related to osteoporosis.

A random sample of 149 college female students participated in this study. Participants completed two questionnaires consisting of the Osteoporosis Knowledge Test and the Osteoporosis Self-Efficacy Scale. Participants were surveyed to determine their knowledge of osteoporosis and their intent to change their health behavior before and after an educational intervention.

Statistical analysis indicated that an educational intervention increased the subjects’ knowledge about osteoporosis and elicited self-reported confidence level in health lifestyle behavioral changes. These findings suggest that an educational intervention is one strategy that can be implemented to bring about awareness of those at risk for osteoporosis and behavioral changes they can incorporate into their lives.

Included in

Nursing Commons

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