A study to assess the knowledge among Kuwait working women regarding traditional wear leading to osteoporosis and its effect in physical ability

BACKGROUND: Osteoporosis is a major public health concern, particularly among women, as it increases the risk of fractures and impacts mobility and quality of life. Cultural and lifestyle factors, such as clothing that limits sun exposure and reduced physical activity, may influence osteoporosis risk and knowledge levels. This study aimed to assess osteoporosis knowledge and its impact on physical ability among working women wearing the burqa, using the Osteoporosis Knowledge Assessment Tool (OKAT) as the primary outcome measure. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 working women aged 25–55 years who wear the burqa. Participants were recruited from hospitals, offices, schools, and other workplaces, and data were collected using: 1. OKAT to assess osteoporosis knowledge. 2. A Physical Activity and Functional Limitation Questionnaire to evaluate mobility and lifestyle habits, Demographic variables, BMI, and physical activity levels were recorded. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression analysis to determine associations between osteoporosis knowledge and other factors. RESULTS: The mean OKAT score was 9.43, indicating low to moderate osteoporosis knowledge. 58% of participants had low knowledge, 33% had moderate knowledge, and only 9% had high knowledge about osteoporosis. Educational level significantly influenced osteoporosis knowledge. PhD holders scored highest (18.6), while non-graduates had the lowest scores (6.55). Occupation was also a significant factor, with teachers (14.65) and medical professionals (10.99) scoring higher than office workers (7.09) and unskilled workers (4.71). 75.5% of participants reported not engaging in regular exercise, a key risk factor for osteoporosis. 47% were overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m²), and 4% were obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m²).Lower osteoporosis knowledge was associated with less engagement in preventive behaviours, such as physical activity and a calcium-rich diet. CONCLUSION: The study highlights significant gaps in osteoporosis knowledge among working women who wear the burqa, particularly among those with lower educational attainment and in non-working individuals. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to raise awareness and promote preventive behaviours, such as regular physical activity, to mitigate the risk of osteoporosis in this population.