KNOWLEDGE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE OF IRAQI FAMILY PHYSICIANS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOPOROSIS AMONG THE ELDERLY

Background: Osteoporosis is a major public health problem among the elderly, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs due to fragility fractures. Family physicians play a pivotal role in the prevention, early detection, and management of osteoporosis; however, gaps between knowledge and clinical practice have been reported, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, including Iraq. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and clinical practice of Iraqi family physicians regarding osteoporosis in the elderly and to identify demographic and professional factors associated with knowledge and practice. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 300 family physicians working in different healthcare settings in Iraq. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered electronic questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, and practice related to osteoporosis. Knowledge and practice scores were calculated using predefined scoring systems and categorized into poor-to-fair and good levels. Results: Overall, 63.3% of participants demonstrated good knowledge, while 59.3% showed good practice. No significant associations were found between knowledge level and demographic or professional variables. In contrast, good practice was significantly associated with age and years of experience with better practice observed among physicians aged 41–50 years and those with 11–20 years of experience. Working in primary health care centers showed a borderline significant association with better practice. Conclusion: Although Iraqi family physicians exhibit generally good knowledge about osteoporosis in the elderly, a noticeable gap exists between knowledge and clinical practice. Targeted, practice-oriented training and strengthened primary care strategies are essential to improve osteoporosis management and reduce fracture risk among the Iraqi elderly population.