Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age globally. Awareness and understanding of PCOS among women can significantly impact early diagnosis and management. This study aimed to assess PCOS knowledge among women in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India, identifying knowledge gaps and educational needs. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from April to June 2023 among 400 women of reproductive age in District Shimla. A structured questionnaire covered demographics and 20 PCOS-related knowledge questions. Data were analyzed using Epi Info V7 Software. Results: Of the participants, 35.75% displayed very good knowledge, 38% had good knowledge, 18.5% had fair knowledge, and 7.75% had poor knowledge regarding PCOS. Key findings included a reasonable understanding of PCOS nomenclature (63.5%), common signs and symptoms (61.75%), and its impact on menstrual cycles (61.5%). Knowledge gaps were evident in understanding risk factors (46.25%), treatment options (46.5%), and surgical interventions (26%). Awareness of lifestyle management (45.5%), medication use (45.75%), and long-term health consequences (43%) was moderate. Nutritional guidelines (29%) and support resources (24.75%) were less known. Conclusion: While awareness of PCOS is present among women in District Shimla, significant knowledge gaps exist, particularly regarding risk factors, treatment options, and support resources. Targeted educational efforts can empower women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, emphasizing early diagnosis and effective management.
Key findings:
The study in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, found that while women had a reasonable understanding of PCOS nomenclature, signs, symptoms, and menstrual impacts, knowledge gaps existed in risk factors, treatments, surgical interventions, lifestyle management, medication use, long-term consequences, nutritional guidelines, and support resources. Targeted education is essential for informed reproductive health decisions.
What is known and what is new?
The study reaffirmed existing knowledge about PCOS among women in District Shimla, highlighting their understanding of its nomenclature, signs, symptoms, and menstrual impacts. However, it also uncovered new insights into significant gaps in knowledge regarding risk factors, treatment options, surgical interventions, lifestyle management, medication use, long-term consequences, nutritional guidelines, and support resources.
What is the implication, and what should change now?
The study's implications suggest a need for immediate action to improve PCOS knowledge among women in District Shimla. Targeted educational campaigns focusing on areas of low understanding, such as risk factors, treatment options, and support resources, are essential. Healthcare providers and policymakers should prioritize these initiatives to enhance overall awareness, promote early diagnosis, and improve management of PCOS in the region.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder, has emerged as a significant health concern among women of reproductive age worldwide. It is characterized by a range of hormonal imbalances, metabolic disturbances, and reproductive challenges. PCOS affects approximately 5% to 15% of women, making it one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders globally. Its multifaceted nature and potential long-term health consequences necessitate heightened awareness, especially among women in the reproductive age group. [1-3]
PCOS is typified by a spectrum of symptoms and clinical manifestations, including irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. These features can lead to complications such as infertility, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and psychological distress. The complexity of PCOS, with its interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, underscores the importance of early diagnosis and management. [4-7]
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of PCOS as a major reproductive health concern. However, awareness and understanding of this syndrome remain variable among women, influenced by factors such as education, socio-economic status, and geographic location. Given the unique demographic and sociocultural context of District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India, there is a need to comprehensively assess the level of PCOS awareness among women in this region.
District Shimla, nestled in the picturesque state of Himachal Pradesh, boasts a diverse population with distinct healthcare needs and challenges. The impact of geographical and cultural factors on PCOS awareness in this region warrants in-depth exploration. An informed and aware population is better equipped to seek timely medical intervention and make lifestyle modifications to mitigate the effects of PCOS.
This study seeks to bridge the knowledge gap by conducting a comprehensive analysis of PCOS awareness among women of reproductive age in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. By evaluating their knowledge and perceptions of PCOS, this research aims to identify areas of misconceptions, knowledge deficits, and educational needs. Ultimately, the goal is to enlighten women about PCOS, empowering them to take control of their reproductive health and well-being.
Objectives Of The Study:
The objective of this study is to assess the level of knowledge about Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) among women of reproductive age in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Research Approach -Descriptive
Research Design- Cross-sectional survey design
Study area: District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Study duration- between April 2023 to June 2023
Study population: All reproductive age group females who were staying in theDistrict Sirmaur, Himachal Pradeshfor 12 months or more.
Sample size- 400 reproductive age group females, assuming 50% have adequate knowledge regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), 5% absolute error, 95% confidence level, and 5% non-response rate.
Study tool: A google form questionnaire consisting of questions regarding socio-demography and knowledge regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) was created. The questionnaire was initially pre-tested on a small number of females to identify any difficulty in understanding by the respondents.
Description of Tool-
Demographic data survey instrument: The demographic form elicited information on participants’ background: age, marital status, religion, employment, education and many more.
Questionnaire: The questionnaire contains 20 structuredknowledge related questions regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). One mark was given for each correct answer and zero for incorrect answer. The maximum score was 20 and minimum score was zero. Scoring was done on the basis of marks as >80%(16-20)=very good,60-79%(12-15) =Good,41-59% ( 8-11)=Fair,<40% (< 8)=poor
Validity of tool - by the experts in this field
Data collection- Data was collected under the guidance of supervisors. The google form questionnaire was circulated among reproductive age group female residents of District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh for responses using online modes like e-mail and social media platforms like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin till the 400 responses were collected.
Data analysis- Data was collected and entered in Microsoft excel spread sheet, cleaned for errors and analyzed with Epi Info V7 Software with appropriate statistical test in terms of frequencies and percentage.
Ethical Considerations- Participants confidentiality and anonymity was maintained.
The primary aim of this study was to assess the knowledge level regarding PCOS among women of reproductive age residing in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. A total of 400 respondents participated in the study, with 216 (54%) hailing from urban areas and 184 (46%) from rural regions. Table: 1
Table-1: Knowledge regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) among study participants
|
|
|
|
What does Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) refer to? | 254 | 63.5 | |
What are some common signs and symptoms associated with PCOD? | 247 | 61.75 | |
How does PCOD affect the menstrual cycle? | 246 | 61.5 | |
What are some possible factors or risks linked to the development of PCOD? | 185 | 46.25 | |
Can PCOD impact a woman's fertility and her ability to conceive? | 174 | 43.5 | |
Are there specific medical tests or criteria used for diagnosing PCOD? | 164 | 41 | |
Is PCOD a lifelong condition or is it curable? | 204 | 51 | |
What are the potential long-term health consequences of having PCOD? | 172 | 43 | |
Can lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and diet changes, help manage PCOD symptoms? | 182 | 45.5 | |
What treatment options are available for PCOD? | 186 | 46.5 | |
Can medications be prescribed to regulate hormone levels and menstrual cycles in women with PCOD? | 183 | 45.75 | |
Are there any natural or alternative approaches that can be effective in managing PCOD? | 153 | 38.25 | |
Does PCOD increase the risk of developing other conditions like diabetes or heart disease? | 171 | 42.75 | |
Is it possible to prevent PCOD? Are there any preventive measures or strategies? | 151 | 37.75 | |
Can stress or emotional factors contribute to the development or worsening of PCOD? | 171 | 42.75 | |
Are there specific dietary guidelines for women with PCOD? | 116 | 29 | |
Can surgical procedures like ovarian drilling or cyst removal cure PCOD? | 104 | 26 | |
Are there support groups or resources available for women dealing with PCOD? | 99 | 24.75 | |
Can weight management have an impact on improving PCOD symptoms? | 177 | 44.25 | |
What are the potential complications associated with untreated or poorly managed PCOD? | 144 | 36 |
Table-2: Knowledge score regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) among study participants
Category (Marks) | Frequency (n=400) | % |
V. Good (16-20) | 143 | 35.75 |
Good (12-15) | 152 | 38 |
Fair(8-11) | 74 | 18.5 |
Poor(<8) | 31 | 7.75 |
In the present study 35.75% (143) participants had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towardsPolycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), 38% (152) had good knowledge (12-15 marks), 18.5% (74) had fair knowledge (8-11 marks) and 7.75 (31) having poor knowledge (<8 marks). Table: 2
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. This study aimed to assess the level of PCOS awareness among women in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, and to identify areas of misconception, knowledge gaps, and educational needs.
The study included 400 women of reproductive age, with a majority from urban areas (54%). The findings reveal varying levels of awareness among participants regarding PCOS. Approximately 63.5% correctly understood that PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) refers to PCOS, highlighting a reasonable understanding of the syndrome's nomenclature. This is a positive starting point for recognizing and discussing PCOS. Approximately 61.75% recognized common signs and symptoms associated with PCOS. This awareness is crucial, as it aids in early recognition and potential intervention. Approximately 61.5% of participants understood the impact of PCOS on the menstrual cycle. This knowledge is essential for women seeking regularity in their menstrual cycles and fertility management.
Concerningly, only 46.25% recognized possible factors or risks linked to the development of PCOS. This highlights a significant knowledge gap regarding the syndrome's etiology, which is complex and multifactorial. Around 43.5% acknowledged that PCOS can impact a woman's fertility and ability to conceive. This understanding is vital for women planning pregnancies and seeking appropriate medical guidance. Approximately 41% were aware of the existence of specific medical tests or criteria for diagnosing PCOS. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
Approximately 51% recognized that PCOS is a lifelong condition, and only 46.5% were aware of the available treatment options. This suggests that while women may know about the condition, there is less awareness regarding its long-term implications and management strategies. Approximately 43% understood the potential long-term health consequences of having PCOS, including risks like diabetes and heart disease. This awareness is essential for comprehensive healthcare planning. Around 45.5% recognized that lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and diet changes, can help manage PCOS symptoms. Lifestyle interventions play a crucial role in PCOS management. Approximately 45.75% acknowledged the use of medications to regulate hormone levels and menstrual cycles in women with PCOS, indicating an awareness of the medical management options.
About 38.25% were aware of natural or alternative approaches that can be effective in managing PCOS, which is promising, considering the importance of holistic well-being.Around 42.75% recognized that PCOS can increase the risk of developing other conditions like diabetes or heart disease, underlining the need for comprehensive healthcare. Approximately 37.75% were aware of the possibility of preventing PCOS, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and lifestyle modifications. Around 42.75% recognized that stress or emotional factors can contribute to the development or worsening of PCOS. This highlights the need for addressing mental health aspects in PCOS management.Approximately 29% were aware of specific dietary guidelines for women with PCOS, indicating room for improvement in nutritional education.
Only 26% recognized surgical procedures like ovarian drilling or cyst removal as potential treatments, indicating a lower awareness of surgical options. Approximately 24.75% were aware of support groups or resources available for women dealing with PCOS, suggesting the potential for improved patient support and education. Around 44.25% understood that weight management can have a positive impact on improving PCOS symptoms, emphasizing the role of lifestyle modifications. Approximately 36% recognized potential complications associated with untreated or poorly managed PCOS, emphasizing the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention.
Overall, the study revealed that while there is some awareness of PCOS among women in District Shimla, significant knowledge gaps exist. These gaps include understanding the risk factors for PCOS, the potential for long-term health consequences, surgical treatments, and support resources.
When comparing these findings with studies conducted in similar settings and populations, District Shimla's women exhibited a relatively favorable level of awareness regarding PCOS.8-13 However, there are still areas where education and awareness can be improved, particularly in terms of understanding risk factors, dietary guidelines, and the availability of support resources.
In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into PCOS awareness among women in District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. While a significant proportion of participants displayed good to very good knowledge of PCOS, there are specific areas that warrant focused educational efforts. Empowering women with accurate information about PCOS can facilitate early diagnosis, effective management, and improved overall reproductive health and well-being.
Funding: No funding sources
Conflict of interest: None declared
Ethical approval: The study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee of Indira Gandhi Medical College
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