Osteoporosis Knowledge, Health Beliefs, and DXA T-Scores in Men and Women 50 Years of Age and Older

Abstract

More than half of the sample had abnormal bone density scans. Knowledge of osteoporosis was low for women and even lower for men. Seven of the nine health belief variables were associated with gender. Women perceived osteoporosis to be serious and that they were susceptible. Men did not perceive osteoporosis to be serious or that they were susceptible. Men were more health motivated and more confident of their ability to engage in exercise.