Osteoporosis is a significant public health problem characterized by low bone mass and deterioration in the microarchitecture of bone tissue, leading to an increased risk of fractures. Risk factors such as advanced age, female gender, inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake, physical inactivity, smoking, and alcohol use play a critical role in its development. As in many countries, the prevalence of osteoporosis is increasing in Turkey, accelerated by an aging population and lifestyle changes. However, it is reported that the level of awareness and knowledge about osteoporosis in the community is often insufficient.
This study is a randomized controlled experimental trial with a two-group pretest-posttest design, conducted between February 1 and June 1, 2026, among women aged 45 and older who have not been diagnosed with osteoporosis but carry at least one osteoporosis risk factor, attending the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation outpatient clinic at Bartın State Hospital. From the study population, participants who meet the inclusion criteria and volunteer will be randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The sample size is determined as 74, calculated with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. While the intervention group receives a structured education program based on the Health Belief Model, the control group will receive no education.
The dependent variables of the study are osteoporosis awareness and health beliefs. These variables will be measured before and after the intervention using the Osteoporosis Awareness Scale and the Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale, which includes subdimensions of perceived susceptibility, seriousness, benefits, and barriers. The effectiveness of the education program will be evaluated through inter-group and intra-group comparisons.
Being a woman aged 45 and over
Not having been diagnosed with osteoporosis
Having at least one of the risk factors for osteoporosis development as stated in the literature (being in menopause, family history of osteoporosis, low level of physical activity, insufficient calcium/vitamin D intake, low body mass index, etc.)
Having applied to the Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Outpatient Clinic of Bartın State Hospital
Having a previous diagnosis of osteoporosis
Having a serious endocrine or rheumatological disease affecting bone metabolism
Having a history of long-term (≥ 3 months) systemic corticosteroid use
Having participated in a structured education program related to osteoporosis within the last 6 months