Quality of Web-Based Patient Education on Osteoporosis Lifestyle Changes
Abstract
Introduction
Osteoporosis is a prevalent condition associated with reduced bone density and increased fracture risk, yet many patients rely on online health information to guide lifestyle management. This study aimed to evaluate the quality and accessibility of consumer health websites providing information on osteoporosis lifestyle modifications.
Methods
A systematic Google search identified the first 150 websites, with 85 websites eligible for inclusion. After review of several national guidelines, we established four lifestyle domains: calcium/vitamin D supplementation, fall prevention, exercise, and smoking cessation. Two independent reviewers assessed each website using the DISCERN instrument, which examines the quality of written consumer health information.
Results
The mean DISCERN score was 50.7±9.71 (out of 80). Of the 85 websites, 7 (8.2%) were rated as excellent, 41 (48.2%) as good, 31 (36.5%) as fair, 5 (5.9%) as poor, and 1 (1.2%) as very poor. Accessibility features were limited, with 7.8% offering translation and 31.8% incorporating multimedia content.
Conclusions
These findings demonstrate considerable variability in quality and highlight gaps in accessibility. Improvements in guideline-based recommendations, transparency, and reliability can support more equitable osteoporosis care.
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