What are the barriers to adoption of a lifestyle associated with optimal peak bone mass acquisition? A qualitative study of young adults in New Zealand

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the barriers to adopting lifestyle factors other than physical activity important for optimal peak bone mass (PBM) acquisition—namely, dietary factors, avoidance of cigarette smoking, and keeping alcohol consumption within recommended limits. Materials and Methods: University students and staff aged 18–35 years were recruited. Six semi-structured, in-depth focus group interviews were conducted with a total of 28 participants. The interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. A thematic approach for data analysis using a constant comparative method was performed using NVivo software. Results: Three major themes emerged: socio-cultural barriers (peer pressure and cultural norms); personal barriers (time, cost, and diet preferences); and other barriers (medical illness and lack of symptoms associated with low bone mass density). Conclusions: We identified several barriers to adoption of lifestyle behaviours that might be beneficial to PBM acquisition. These data might facilitate the development of public health interventions designed to help young adults embrace osteoprotective lifestyles, and hence reduce the burden of osteoporotic fracture in later life.