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Abstract
The purpose was to reduce modifiable osteoporosis-related risk factors (MORR) in older adults receiving Title III nutrition services. A convenience sample in northeast Georgia (n = 71) completed heel bone mineral density (BMD) tests (Hologic, Bedford, MA) at Time 1 and osteoporosis risk assessment questionnaires at Time 1 and Time 2 (n = 59). An osteoporosis education intervention focusing on MORR was implemented. At Time 1, 60% had either osteoporosis or osteopenia (T-score < -1.0). African American women had more MORR than Caucasian women (5 or 6 MORR: 62% versus 30%, respectively, p = 0.004). At Time 2, participants reported they talked to their doctor about heel BMD results (42%) or osteoporosis (41%); calcium supplement use was more than doubled (p < 0.05); and MORR was decreased by 1.3. In conclusion, this osteoporosis intervention reduced MORR in older adults. The curriculum is available for other educators at www.arches.uga.edu/~noahnet.