KNOWLEDGE, AWARENESS AND ATTITUDES TOWARD POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS) AMONG ALLIED HEALTH SCIENCE STUDENTS

Abstract

Background: The most common endocrine disorders that affect women with reproductive capacity include polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Symptoms of the disease include irregular periods, obesity, acne, and insulin resistance. Clinical symptoms include problems with ovulation, hyperandrogenism and ovarian cysts despite miscarriages. PCOS also creates psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, lack of confidence due to body concerns due to increased levels of androgens. Objective: To assess knowledge and attitude gaps that are required for educational interventions for Allied Health Science students. Methodology: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study carried out among 89 Allied Health Science Students. Data analysis was done using SPSS software and was presented in graphs and tables. This is done to create more awareness and knowledge about the early symptoms and treatment and investigations of the disease. Questions included (Yes / No) multiple choices. Results: Out of the total 89 respondents, 65.2% were females. In terms of their awareness, 89.9% had some information about PCOS, 85.4% were familiar with obesity as one of the factors associated with PCOS, 71.6% were informed about its relation with insulin resistance, and 81.8% knew that it could make the women infertile. There was also a favorable attitude towards PCOS with 89.9% of the respondents agreeing on the importance of early diagnosis in order to have better treatment outcomes, 84.1% believing that lifestyle modifications were an effective approach in managing PCOS, and 89.5% emphasizing on the importance of increasing awareness about PCOS. Conclusion: The study finds that Allied Health Sciences students showed satisfactory knowledge and a positive attitude toward Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Most participants were aware of its risk factors, complications, diagnosis, and lifestyle management. However, there were low understanding of its genetic basis, hormonal mechanisms, pharmacological treatment, and diagnostic imaging. These findings emphasize the need for focused educational efforts and improvements in the curriculum to help students better understand PCOS and support early detection and effective management in their future clinical practice.