Osteoporosis knowledge and awareness in hemiplegic patients: a cross-sectional study

Osteoporosis is a prevalent but often overlooked condition in hemiplegic patients that increases the risk of fracture. The aim of this study was to evaluate osteoporosis knowledge and awareness levels and determine associated factors in adult hemiplegic individuals.

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 88 hemiplegic participants (45 males, 43 females) in a tertiary rehabilitation clinic. Demographic and clinical data were documented. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination, while osteoporosis knowledge was evaluated through the 31-item Osteoporosis Awareness Scale in addition to a structured question ("Have you ever heard of osteoporosis?"). Statistical analyses included independent t-tests, one-way analysis of variance with Tukey post-hoc testing, Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression (significance: p<0.05).

The mean Osteoporosis Awareness Scale score was 72.55±32.29 (range: 32-124). Seventy-two (81.8%) participants reported having heard of osteoporosis. In univariate analysis, Osteoporosis Awareness Scale scores were higher in females (76.58±33.81 vs. 68.73±30.52, p=0.036), postmenopausal women (78.92±33.45 vs. 58.40±26.31, p=0.042), those with higher education levels (p<0.001), and individuals with better cognitive function (p<0.001). Multiple linear regression confirmed that education level (p<0.001) and Mini-Mental State Examination score (p=0.002) were significant independent predictors of Osteoporosis Awareness Scale scores. Gender (p=0.052) and menopausal status (p=0.087) were not significant in the multivariate model.

Education level and cognitive function were significant independent predictors of osteoporosis knowledge in hemiplegic patients. Gender and menopausal status were not significant after adjustment for education and cognitive function. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational strategies in rehabilitation settings, particularly for patients with lower educational backgrounds and cognitive impairment.