Knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and health behaviors of bone health among Caribbean Hispanic/Latino adults

Authors: NOEL, SABRINA - University Of Massachusetts; AREVALO, SANDRA - California State University; MENA, NOEREEM - University Of Rhode Island; MANGANO, KELSEY - University Of Massachusetts; VELEZ, MARTHA - Lawrence Council On Aging & Senior Center; DAWSON-HUGHES, BESS - Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging At Tufts University; TUCKER, KATHERINE - University Of Massachusetts

Submitted to: Archives of Osteoporosis
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/20/2019
Publication Date: 2/4/2019
Citation: Noel, S.E., Arevalo, S.P., Mena, N.Z., Mangano, K., Velez, M., Dawson-Hughes, B., Tucker, K.L. 2019. Knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and health behaviors of bone health among Caribbean Hispanic/Latino adults. Archives of Osteoporosis. 14:14. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11657-019-0566-5.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11657-019-0566-5

Interpretive Summary: Few studies have examined knowledge and perceptions of osteoporosis among Caribbean Latino adults. The goal of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs related to bone health in a group of 45 Caribbean Latino adults aged 50 years and older residing in the Boston area. Participants completed a questionnaire and participated in one of four focus groups to obtain information on their general health, knowledge about bone health, sources of information about bone health, and knowledge about prevention of osteoporosis. Most participants had heard of osteoporosis (90%); however, the majority were not able to accurately describe it or differentiate it from other bone and joint conditions. Health care providers were viewed as most trusted sources of health information, despite feelings of being rushed during their visits, with limited communication about preventative care. Most participants felt that nutrition and exercise were important for overall health. We conclude that culturally specific interventions to promote bone health are needed for this underserved population.

Technical Abstract: Summary: Few studies have examined knowledge and perceptions of osteoporosis among Caribbean Latino adults. Confusion regarding the term osteoporosis was noted. Doctors were viewed as trusted sources of health information, although descriptions of a paradoxical relationship emerged. This study can be used to inform culturally tailored interventions for osteoporosis prevention. Purpose: The overall goal of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of bone health and osteoporosis among Caribbean Latino adults aged greater than or equal to 50 years. Methods: This triangulated mixed methods study included completion of a quantitative questionnaire and participation in one of four focus groups to obtain information on (1) general health, (2) knowledge about bone health and osteoporosis, (3) sources of information about bone health, and (4) prevention knowledge and personal responsibility. Quantitative data were analyzed using SAS, and qualitative data were analyzed using descriptive and structural coding by two independent research members. Results: The majority of participants were female (73%), Dominican (84%), and low income (82% less than $20,000) with a mean age of 68.4 (+/-8.5) years. Most participants had heard of osteoporosis (90%); however, the majority were not able to accurately describe this chronic condition. Health care providers were viewed as most trusted sources of health information, despite feelings of being rushed during their visits, with limited communication about preventative care. Most participants felt that nutrition and exercise were important for overall health. Conclusions: Caribbean Hispanic adults in this study reported knowledge of osteoporosis and nutritional factors associated with prevention of this chronic condition. However, qualitatively, there was confusion between osteoporosis and other bone and joint conditions. Culturally specific interventions to promote prevention of osteoporosis are urgently needed for this underserved, high-risk population.