RESUMO
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to investigate osteoporosis knowledge, health beliefs, and influencing factors on health behaviors among female college students. METHODS: Using the Osteoporosis Quiz, the Health belief Scale, and the Health Behavior Questionnaire, data were collected from 314 female college students from 4 universities located in Chungcheong providence. RESULTS: The mean scores of knowledge and health belief were 12.7+/-3.81 and 90.9+/-12.66, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation between osteoporosis knowledge and health belief (p<.001). Also, a statistically significant correlation was found between health belief and health behavior (p<.001). According to the regression model, knowledge, perceived benefit, perceived barrier, family history of osteoporosis, and health interest explained 6.7% of total variance in health behavior. CONCLUSION: Female college students should be taught to be aware of the importance of proper dietary intake and regular exercise as a way to maintain or promote the health of their bones so that they can prevent osteoporosis.