Awareness of polycystic ovarian syndrome among young women in Western India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20195307Keywords:
Awareness, India, Polycystic ovary syndrome, WomenAbstract
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition characterized by elevated androgen levels, menstrual irregularities, and/or small cysts on one or both ovaries. It is a common issue affecting more than 7% of adult women, causing many problems including but not limited to infertility, irregular menses, hirsutism, acne and alopecia. The primary cause of PCOS is still unknown but awareness and lifestyle modification is known to be an efficient therapy route to relieve symptoms of this syndrome. Objective of the study was to assess the knowledge about PCOS in young women in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Methods: A cross sectional study was performed on 500 women of age group 18-30 years coming to outpatient departments of D. Y. Patil Hospital, Navi Mumbai. Written informed consent was obtained and simple random technique was applied for selection of study participants. Pre-designed, pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The data collected was analyzed through percentages and frequencies using Excel. Relevant statistical test was applied was applied and p value was calculated wherever required and considered statistically significant when <0.05.
Results: Among 500 participants, only 38% of the women were aware of the term PCOS. 26% of the subjects were aware about the organ system involved in this disease. Most of the people know about this disorder through friends or relatives. 17% of the women knew about the various symptoms associated with PCOS.
Conclusions: The alarming results of present study show that very small number of young women understand what this disease is and thus when to consult a physician. This could be why PCOS is an underrepresented and underdiagnosed disease. This widely prevalent disease among young women should be talked about more and more young women must be educated on this to help prevent the sequelae of this syndrome on fertility and insulin resistance.
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