Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan MY, Lai SNS, Lam PY, Pang SK, So KW, To MM, Cheung YHK, & Wong MSM
Affiliation :
Hong Kong East Cluster, Department of Family Medicine & Primary Health Care
Introduction :
Osteoporosis is a chronic condition characterized by diminished bone density and quality, significantly heightening the risk of fractures. Multifactorial in its etiology, the disease is influenced by age, endocrine imbalances, nutritional deficits, and genetic predispositions. The burden of osteoporosis is substantial, not only from an economic perspective—€37.4 billion annually in Europe— but also in terms of individual impact, including diminished quality of life, altered self-image, and increased dependency. Traditional management, as prescribed by the World Health Organization (2003), involves ensuring adequate dietary calcium and vitamin D, maintaining physical activity, and initiating pharmacological treatments. Complementary educational strategies are critical in improving patient awareness and compliance, which can prevent fractures and progression of the disease.
Objectives :
This project utilizes an empowerment program designed to enhance the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of osteoporotic patients in the Hong Kong East Cluster (HKEC), specifically through a nurse-led osteoporosis clinic in Sai Wan Ho General Out Patient Clinic (GOPC). The program targets patients aged 60 and above, emphasizing information dissemination, health coaching, and lifestyle modifications aimed at fracture prevention and osteoporosis management.
Methodology :
The empowerment program is underpinned by the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) model, tailored to the cultural context of Hong Kong. Standard osteoporosis information covering diet, sunlight exposure, exercise, fall prevention, and medication was provided. Health literacy was assessed using the Risk Estimate of Inadequate Health Literacy (REIHL) tool, with individualized coaching offered to patients with adequate health literacy scores.
Result & Outcome :
From June 1, 2024, to August 15, 2024, 47 patients visited the osteoporosis clinic, with 39 patients completing the KAP questionnaire. Results demonstrated a significant improvement in knowledge scores from 18.03 to 21.13 out of 25 post-education. Patients also showed a high level of agreement regarding the importance of managing their condition, reflected in their positive attitudes towards lifestyle modifications and adherence to prescribed medications. Notably, physical activity and dietary changes emerged as crucial areas where patient education was most impactful.
Limitations of the study included a small sample size and the absence of a validated local assessment tool, suggesting the need for larger future studies. The project also identified potential improvements in the consistency of information delivery, recommending the development of educational videos. In conclusion, the empowerment program at GOPC successfully reduced waiting times for osteoporosis management and enhanced patient knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The initiative effectively promoted positive lifestyle changes and improved overall patient satisfaction, reflecting its potential for broader application in osteoporosis care frameworks.
