Assessment of patient and physician knowledge of osteoporosis

168

of major physical problems and 63% of emotional problems. Hot flushes were the

most common physical complaint (SO%), while irritability was the most frequently

mentioned emotional complaint (93%). Over half (53%) of the women were more than

9 kg over their ideal body weight. Forty-four had been hysterectomized and 14

had also undergone bilateral oophorectomy. Sixty-four percent had received

oestrogen replacement therapy, but only 33% were taking some form of oestrogen

at the time of their first visit. Only 11 of the 32 women with a uterus had

taken a progestogen with the oestrogen. Less than half (46%) reported that their

relationship with their partner was satisfactory. It is noteworthy that

according to the Zung scale, 52% of the women were at least mildly depressed and

almost half of these (42%) were moderately or severely depressed at the time of

presentation. Overall, only 20% of the women claimed that the menopause had not

affected their lives. These data demonstrate that the menopause is accompanied

by profound psychological as well as physiological changes. The data further

suggest that both physicians and patients would benefit from education in an

organized environment.

110 ASSESSMENT OF PATIENT AND PHYSICIAN KNOWLEDGE OF OSTEOPOROSIS

C. Rector, B. Cook, J. Krischer and M. Notelovitz - Gainesville, Florida,

U.S.A.

This paper presents the results of a survey of 773 white female patients and

79 physicians in a North Central Florida Community. The self-administered,

mailed questionnaire was composed of questions measuring general knowledge of

osteoporosis, as well as risk factors, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of

this condition.

Findings from the survey indicate that a large proportion of the patient and

physician respondents hold inadequate knowledge of osteoporosis.

Materials for patient education were developed covering the items tested.

After distribution to the patient participants, re-testing should reflect an

increased understanding. It is expected that this educational intervention will

have a measurable impact on the prevention of osteoporosis.