Effect of a Health Belief Model-Based Intervention on Perceived Susceptibility to Osteoporosis among Female Teachers

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a Health Belief Model-based educational intervention in enhancing perceived susceptibility to osteoporosis among female secondary school teachers in Nasiriyah, Iraq.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental pretest-post-test control group study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the College of Nursing, University of Baghdad, Iraq from 20th December 2024 to 28th February 2025 vide letter No. 71 dated 12th December 2024.

Methods: A total of 144 female teachers aged 45–65 years were recruited from eight public secondary schools. The participants were divided into an intervention group (n=74) and a control group (n=70). The intervention included structured educational sessions based on Health Belief Model components. Data were collected through validated instruments including the Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale and the Osteoporosis Knowledge Assessment Tool.

Results: There was a statistically significant improvement in the mean scores of perceived susceptibilities in the intervention group across the three time points: pre-test (21.33±6.11), post-test I (26.98±3.37), and post-test II (32.69±1.09). In contrast, the control group showed no significant change over time. Mauchly’s test confirmed the significance of changes in perceived susceptibility (p<0.001).

Conclusion: The Health Belief Model based intervention effectively enhanced perceived susceptibility to osteoporosis among female teachers, suggesting that targeted educational programs can play a pivotal role in
promoting early preventive behaviors. Integrating such models into national health education strategies could improve long-term bone health among at-risk populations in Iraq.