The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #45938

Sara S. Johnson, PhD, Janet L. Johnson, PhD, Julie A. Wright, MS, Mary-Margaret H. Driskell, MPH, Janice M. Prochaska, PhD, and James O. Prochaska, PhD. Pro-Change Behavior Systems, PO Box 755, West Kingston, RI 02892

Inadequate calcium intake is one modifiable risk factor for osteoporosis, which affects approximately 28 million Americans. Interventions guided by the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) offer a promising approach to promoting calcium intake for osteoporosis prevention and management. The purpose of this study was to develop a valid and reliable measure to assess stage of change for calcium intake. Seven hundred ninety women (mean age=64; 98% Caucasian) completed a mail survey, which included TTM-based measures and a measure of the frequency of consumption of calcium-rich foods and supplements. Stage of change was assessed by a single question with the criterion of getting 1200-1500 mg of calcium every day through a combination of food and supplements. The stage distribution was 8.5% Precontemplation, 7.6% Contemplation, 8.3% Preparation, 10.6% Action, and 65% Maintenance. External validity of the stage measure was assessed by examining reported calcium intake and TTM constructs across the stages. Participants in Maintenance consumed more calcium per day than participants in any other stage (p<.006), while those in Precontemplation consumed the least compared to all other stages (p<.005). Confidence and pros also differed across the stages, with Precontemplators reporting less confidence and fewer pros than those in the later stages (all p<.05). These patterns across the stages replicate those found for other health behaviors and support the validity of the stage measure for women over 45 years old. These findings underscore the importance of providing stage-matched interventions for calcium intake for osteoporosis prevention and management.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to

(
• Describe the development of a valid measure for stage of change for calcium intake for the prevention and management of osteoporosis; (
• Discuss the association between stage of change, other Transtheoretical Model constructs, and behavioral outcomes for calcium intake; and (
• Recognize the importance of matching osteoporosis interventions to readiness to change.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: This research was funded by Optum, Inc., a division of UnitedHealthcare through an unrestricted grant from Eli Lilly.