Date of Conferral

2016

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Public Health

Advisor

Chester S. Jones

Abstract

Osteoporosis is considered to be the most adverse public health disease associated with substantial mortality among postmenopausal women. Hysterectomy, surgically induced menopause, contributes to the early onset of menopause. However, there was no evidence of an association between early menopause following hysterectomy and osteoporosis among postmenopausal women. The purpose of this quantitative study was to examine the association between demographic and behavioral factors and the prevalence of osteoporosis among hysterectomized postmenopausal women. The integrated theory of health behavior change theoretical framework guided study. Cross-sectional secondary data from the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used. Multiple logistic regression models were used to examine the associations between demographic and behavioral factors and the prevalence of osteoporosis among the study population. The results of this study indicate that the prevalence of osteoporosis was inversely associated with age, education, and annual family income. Non-Hispanic Whites with age of hysterectomy 36-45 were significantly associated with the prevalence of osteoporosis. Moderate recreational activity and calcium/vitamin D intake were associated with decreased prevalence of osteoporosis. Demographic and behavioral factors play substantial roles in the prevalence of osteoporosis. The study results may be used to facilitate risk-prevention strategies to reduce the incidence of osteoporosis. This study may drive positive social change by facilitating public health to promote and implement effective behavioral interventions to prevent osteoporosis in the potential hysterectomized postmenopausal women.

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