[Heath education on osteoporosis for elderly university students].

The purpose of this study was to analyze knowledge and concepts in relation to osteoporosis and changes in eating habits among elderly university students before and after an educational intervention. An action-based research strategy applied questionnaires to 95 individuals ranging in age from 60 to 86 years, with or without osteoporosis. The work showed an obvious lack of knowledge concerning important information about the disease and measures needed to better control progressive loss of bone mass. After four months of educational activities, more than half of the group had reported dietary changes. We emphasize the need to adopt educational strategies not only to inform on ideal preventive practices for osteoporosis but also to build a new mindset and behavior, which are important to control this condition.