An Investigation into the Pre-disease Lifestyles of Women with Osteoporosis in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko-South West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Osteoporosis is a significant public health issue, frequently associated with lifestyle practices that predispose individuals to bone loss. Knowledge about women's pre-disease lifestyles is essential for the identification of modifiable risk factors and preventive strategies, especially in underserved populations where awareness of the disease is still low. This study investigated the pre-disease lifestyle of women with osteoporosis in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South West Local Government Area of Ondo State, with a focus on how these practices may have contributed to disease. Methods: A semi-structured interview was employed for data collection from six (6) participants recruited for the study using a purposive sampling technique. Inductive content analysis was used for analyzing the data, and a similarity process was undertaken to identify sub-themes. Similar sub-themes were grouped to form the final themes for the study. Results: The findings indicated that several lifestyle factors including inadequate diet, lack of exercise, and second-hand smoke exposure were significant contributors to the development of osteoporosis among the participants. Furthermore, most of the women demonstrated low awareness of the link between their lifestyle practices and the onset of the disease. They were not aware of the health implications of their pre-disease lifestyles. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted health education interventions to raise women's knowledge of osteoporosis and its risk factors. NGOs, health workers, and community programs should prioritise awareness campaigns and promote lifestyle modifications that reduce osteoporosis risk, such as balanced diets, regular exercise, and preventive health checks.