Osteoporosis Knowledge and Beliefs among College Students in the USA and China
Author Information
Author(s): Ford M. Allison, Bass Martha, Zhao Yan, Bai Jin-Bing, Zhao Yue
Primary Institution: The University of Mississippi
Hypothesis
This study investigates differences in osteoporosis knowledge, self-efficacy, and health beliefs among Chinese and American college students.
Conclusion
US college students know more about osteoporosis and its risk factors; however, there are similarities in perception of risk between US and Chinese students.
Supporting Evidence
- US students scored higher in osteoporosis knowledge tests compared to Chinese students.
- US students reported greater self-efficacy in preventing osteoporosis through exercise.
- Chinese students perceived more barriers to exercise and calcium intake than US students.
Takeaway
This study found that college students in the USA know more about osteoporosis than those in China, but both groups think they are not likely to get it.
Methodology
Chinese (n = 409) and US (n = 408) college students completed the Osteoporosis Health Belief, Self-Efficacy, and Knowledge Tests.
Potential Biases
Confounding variables such as family history of osteoporosis or presence of an illness requiring medication were not assessed.
Limitations
The sample selections were limited to college students and may not represent the broader population.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 42% male and 57% female, with US students being 74% White and Chinese students classified as Asian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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