Patient knowledge and medication compliance in osteoporosis

Abstract

Knowledge relating to osteoporosis and compliance to medication is important at preventing osteoporotic fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate patients’ knowledge regarding risk factors leading to osteoporosis, such as smoking, alcohol abuse and calcium supplementation. Medication compliance in osteoporotic women and reasons for non-compliance were evaluated. This was achieved through the use of two questionnaires. Questionnaire on Knowledge of Osteoporosis was distributed to all patients prior to undergoing a Bone Mineral Density Test at the Gynaecology Outpatient Department at Mater Dei Hospital. Questionnaire on Compliance with Medication was distributed only to those patients diagnosed with osteoporosis and taking osteoporotic medication. Data collected was analysed using Microsoft Excel® and IBM SPSS® Version 27. Out of 215 participants, 94% (n=203) were female and 6% (n=12) were male. One hundred and twenty-one patients (56%) were 66 years or over. One hundred and forty-eight patients (69%) do not drink alcohol, 73% (n=158) were non-smokers and 62% (n=133) practice a sport. The majority of the patients (n=154) take calcium as part of their diet and as supplements. Fifty-seven out of 215 (27%) participants suffer from osteoporosis. Thirty-three out of 57 (58%) participants that suffer from osteoporosis are not compliant to treatment. The main reason for non-compliance was the unavailability of osteoporotic medication from the Government Formulary (24%). Other reasons include side-effects and/or the patient is forgetful or unbothered. In this study, it was shown that Maltese patients are knowledgeable regarding the risk factors that can lead to osteoporosis. Participants are aware regarding the importance of exercise, calcium intake and regular Bone Density screening. An association was found between family history of osteoporosis, chronic back pain and calcium intake with the incidence of osteoporosis respectively. Introducing osteoporotic medication in the National Formulary may help improve compliance and reduce the incidence of osteoporotic fractures.