Journal of Osteoporosis and Physical Activity
Open Access

Abstract

Falling Between the Cracks: Attitudes and Perceptions toward Osteoporosis Prevention among Postmenopausal Women

Amanda L Lorbergs and Alyson Holland

Background: This study explored women’s attitudes and perceptions about osteoporosis prevention to inform the continued development of community based exercise and education programs.

Methods: A focus group was conducted with nine community dwelling postmenopausal women who resided outside of Hamilton, Ontario’s urban core.

Results: The findings suggest that these women associated aspects of their nutrition and exercise behaviours with maintaining healthy bones, but most did not feel that they were at risk of osteoporosis. Their lack of engagement in osteoporosis prevention behaviours was explained by comparing osteoporosis risk to diseases and health outcomes that were perceived as more severe. Conclusion: The women’s perceptions toward osteoporosis indicated that a knowledge gap exists with regard to the role of exercise for healthy bones that is compounded by an overarching confusion related to osteoporosis risk factors.