Application of health belief model in the assessment of factors affecting exercise behaviours in preventing osteoporosis

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder associated with weak and brittle bones, and more susceptible to fracture. Osteo-protective behaviours, such as exercise, may prevent osteoporosis. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the factors influencing the exercise behaviour in Malaysian adults and to assess their health beliefs and self-regulation in preventing osteoporosis. Methods A cross-sectional, self-administered questionnaire was conducted throughout Malaysia through a web-based or physical-based survey. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: demographic data, ten questions regarding social and family history related to osteoporosis and 38 questions with seven subdomains (i.e. susceptibility, seriousness, barriers, benefits, health motivation, self-efficacy and self-regulation) which measured the health belief scores and self-regulation using 5-point Likert scale. Descriptive, inferential analysis and linear regression were used to analyse the data. Key findings A total of 679 participants completed the questionnaire. The mean health belief score was 63.7%, which was moderate. Most participants (64.4%) perceived low susceptibility to osteoporosis [mean score = 47.0%, standard deviation (SD) = 16.2]. Participants with age 18–27 years (44.8%), single (45.0%) and monthly income <RM 1000 (45.2%), perceived significant lower susceptibility to osteoporosis. Participants’ perception scores were high on the benefits of exercise (75.7%, SD = 16.4), health motivation (74.9%, SD = 17.1) and perceived low barriers to exercise (71.7%, SD = 14.9). Respondents who were at risk of osteoporosis and with family and friends diagnosed with osteoporosis obtained a higher score than those who did not. Conclusions The health belief score in the Malaysian population was moderate. However, the majority of participants were unaware of the susceptibility and seriousness of osteoporosis. Efforts need to be taken to break the barriers associated with exercise in preventing osteoporosis.