Awareness of osteoporosis, osteoporosis knowledge levels, and associated factors in individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Authors : Duygu Silte Karamanlioglu

Pages : 17-29

Doi:10.5798/dicletip.1657226

View : 59 | Download : 87

Publication Date : 2025-03-14

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: Osteoporosis is common in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is known that osteoporosis is underdiagnosed and undertreated in patients with RA. The aim of this study was to assess the awareness and knowledge levels of osteoporosis in patients diagnosed with RA. Methods: A total of 110 RA patients (17 men,93 women; mean age: 57.71±11.27 years) were included in the cross-sectional study. Demographic data, disease duration, and medications used by the participants were noted. General questions about osteoporosis, diet, and exercise were asked. Osteoporosis knowledge was assessed using the Revised Osteoporosis Knowledge Test, while awareness was assessed using the Osteoporosis Awareness Scale. Results: Osteoporosis knowledge (12.44±5.95) and awareness (10.57±5.2) of RA patients were found to be low. 67.3% of the participants did not know that they were in the risk group. As the level of education increased, the knowledge and awareness of osteoporosis also increased. Participants who had a history of fractures, who were regularly monitored for osteoporosis and were taking vitamin D, were found to have higher levels of osteoporosis knowledge and awareness. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that RA patients have low levels of osteoporosis knowledge and awareness. Patient education programs should be organized especially for RA patients in order to reduce the incidence of osteoporosis and the morbidity and mortality that may occur due to osteoporosis.
Keywords : Awareness, knowledge, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis

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