Purpose: The purpose of this study was to measure stage changes in attitudes and behaviors around issues of osteoporosis prevention after program participants attended an in-depth education session. Setting: Two counties in southern Illinois were used to compare rural with urban response to program intervention. Methods: This program was developed around the transtheoretical stages of change model. The Transtheoretical Model conceives behavior change as a process involving progress through a series of five stages. Participants, through use of a pre-test survey were measured for current stage in the model. Participants were again measured immediately after the intervention to note any change in stage and if they planned any behavior changes. Participants were measured again at 2 and 6 months post intervention to monitor attitudes and actual behavior change. Data was entered into a statistical program to determine degree of stage change over time. Findings: Initial findings reveal that participants did change their reported attitudes after the intervention. The follow-up 2 and 6 month surveys will be completed no later than June 2000. Implications: If results continue to be replicated it can be shown health promotion programs can impact populations in the prevention of chronic disease and premature death.
Key Words: Osteoporosis Transtheoretical Stages of Change Model Chronic Disease Prevention
Learning Objectives: Describe the changes in osteoporosis prevention attitudes and behaviors following an in-depth education session. Utilize the Transtheoretical Model of Change to determine the impact of change on attitudes and behavior
Keywords: Community-Based Health Promotion, Change
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.