Knowledge Level and Awareness About Osteoporosis in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract

Objective: Osteoporosis (OP) is a skeletal disease characterized by decreased bone strength and increased fracture risk. Spinal cord injury (SCI) is accepted as a risk factor for OP. The aim of this study was to evaluate the OP knowledge and awareness level in patients with SCI. Materials and Methods: Seventy patients with SCI in the risk group for OP were included in the study. The clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients were evaluated. The OP knowledge and awareness level of the patients were evaluated with questions about OP knowledge and the osteoporosis awareness scale (OAS). Results: Fifty-three (75.7%) male and 17 female patients with a mean age of 40.8±16.5 (18-79) were included in the study. While 13 (18.6%) patients included in the study knew that they were in the risk group for OP, 57 (81.4%) had no information on this subject. There was a significant correlation between total OAS score and education level (r=0.537, p<0.001). No correlation was found between the OAS score and age and duration of disease. The total OAS score was found to be significantly higher in women (59.8±11.4 vs. 52.5±11.7) (p=0.031). Conclusion:It has been shown that patients with SCI have a low level of knowledge about OP. To reduce morbidity, mortality and treatment costs, more information should be given to ensure that patients in the risky group come to regular controls.