Awareness, Knowledge, and Health Beliefs Regarding Osteoporosis among Hypothyroid Patients in Turkey: An Observational Study.

Abstract

Background: Hypothyroidism is the most common thyroid dysfunction, and current evidence suggests that it increases the risk of osteoporosis in these patients. Assessing the level of osteoporosis awareness and understanding among hypothyroid patients is an important requirement for implementing preventive interventions to maintain bone health.

Methods: Thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroxine, and 25-hydroxy-vitamin D levels were recorded along with the patients' demographics. Osteoporosis awareness was assessed with the osteoporosis awareness scale (OAS), and knowledge level was assessed with the revised osteoporosis knowledge test (R-OKT). Health beliefs related to osteoporosis were evaluated using the osteoporosis health belief scale (OHBS).

Results: The median (interquartile range) values for OAS and R-OKT of 348 patients were calculated as 66.0 (32.0) and 9.0 (5.0), respectively. Female patients had higher OAS scores (P<0.001), OHBS benefits of exercise (P=0.002), and calcium intake (P<0.001) subscores compared to males. The distribution of OAS, R-OKT, and OHBS total and susceptibility scores differed significantly across education categories (P<0.001). The linear regression model revealed significant predictors of OAS score variation, including gender (β=-0.27, P<0.001), education (β=0.09, P=0.045), and osteoporosis knowledge (β=0.49, P<0.001).

Conclusions: Patients with hypothyroidism, particularly males and those with lower educational attainment, lack adequate knowledge and awareness regarding osteoporosis. To better comprehend and manage osteoporosis, targeted educational initiatives are required for this vulnerable group.