Investigation of Knowledge and Practices Regarding Pediatric Osteoporosis in Türkiye

The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge and approaches of physicians in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM\&R), Pediatrics, and Orthopedics regarding pediatric osteoporosis. A secondary aim was to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of a data collection tool designed to measure knowledge and practices related to pediatric osteoporosis. The Pediatric Osteoporosis Knowledge and Practice Assessment Scale, used as the data collection tool, was developed based on evidence-based guidelines and the International Society for Clinical Densitometry Pediatric Position Statements. The scale consists of a preliminary section assessing demographic data and clinical practices, and a second section measuring knowledge levels. The questions were designed with "true" (1 point), "false," and "I don't know" (0 points) options, similar to the Osteoporosis Knowledge Questionnaire, which is intended for adults. The questions were categorized into general knowledge and diagnosis, risk factors, assessment, and treatment. Content validity of the scale was ensured by a panel of experts in the field. The scale was distributed online via Google Forms and applied to 321 physicians. A pilot test was conducted with 10 PM\&R physicians to evaluate its clarity. To assess reliability, the scale was administered twice to 30 physicians with a one-week interval.