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Impact of Community‐based Program on Bone‐Health Behaviors
Author(s) -
Plawecki Karen,
Blankenberger Abby,
Evans Ellen,
ChapmanNovakofski Karen
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.23.1_supplement.736.2
Subject(s) - medicine , heel , calcium , bone health , bone mineral , osteoporosis , physical activity , demographics , physical therapy , zoology , demography , biology , sociology , anatomy
The objective of this research was to determine the impact of an eight week education program targeting bone‐healthy diet and physical activity in adults over 50. Participants (n=69) were randomized into treatment (n=35) or control (n=34). There was no difference in demographics, except for gender (p=0.01). Mean age was 65.5 + 9.6 years; mean bone mineral density was 0.52 + 0.1 g/cm 2 . Most were female (83%), white (90%), retired (53%), with some college education (77%), non‐smoking (99%), and took supplements (90%). Of those who took supplements, most chose a product with calcium (89%). Although most had no history of osteoporosis (67%), almost all had a bone scan (81%). Heel ultrasound results included 26% with T‐score < ‐1 and 6% > 1. Dietary intake was assessed using 24‐hour recalls and calcium‐targeted food frequencies. Activity level was assessed by pedometers, heel drops and balance evaluation. Within the treatment group, the 24‐recall pre‐post paired data revealed no differences in calcium intake between any food group (dairy, foods with dairy, fruit, vegetable, grains, meats, others), but a significant difference in total calcium (786 + 470 vs. 1054 + 428, p=.003). Although 42% decreased their steps, 58% increased, with a significant difference (p=.000) between baseline and programmatic mean steps (6685 + 2972 vs. 7423 + 2697). The treatment arm of this program was successful in increasing calcium and steps.