An Examination of Patient Knowledge and Education in Patients with Osteoporosis, Osteopenia, and Normal Bone Density

Abstract

Introduction: Osteoporosis represents a preventable and often treatable condition that is responsible for 1.5 million fractures annually in the United States. Proper patient knowledge represents a crucial aspect of disease management and has potential implications in treatment adherence and lifestyle modification. By examining how much patients know about their own diagnosis, their disease knowledge, and what resources they would like to use, we aim to lay the groundwork for developing efficient patient education resources. Methodology: We surveyed 52 individuals and collected data on demographics, bone density test results, disease knowledge, and educational sources both used and preferred. This was done to learn how much patients know about their condition on a fundamental level. Results: 50% of participants diagnosed with osteoporosis correctly self-reported their condition, as did 21.1% diagnosed with osteopenia. Between the normal, osteopenia, and osteoporosis groups there were no significant differences between participants’ scores on the patient knowledge questionnaire. The resources most used by patients were handouts/brochures and internet/personal research, and patients reported a preference for learning directly from their doctor/nurse. Conclusion: Osteoporosis is associated with millions of fragility fractures occurring annually worldwide. Our study showed a consistent level of knowledge across patients with normal bone mineral density, osteopenia, and osteoporosis, suggesting the need for targeted education efforts, particularly for those with severe forms of the disease. We confirmed the invaluable role of medical personnel in teaching patients about bone density loss. It is through efficient learning that patients can be empowered to take charge of their health.