Comparing Awareness Among Female Medical Versus Nonmedical Students Regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome at Peripheral Center; A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to compare the awareness levels regarding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) among female students studying in medical and non-medical fields at a peripheral center.

Methodology: The cross-sectional survey was conducted in Rawalpindi based institutions from Jan 2022 - June 2022, included females ages 18 to 25 from medical and non-medical institutes, excluding those receiving PCOS therapy. Through SPSS statistical analysis, frequency replies were collected and cross-tabulated. The Chi-square test calculated the significance.

Results: About 174 female students agreed to participate in the study. Among these female students, half of them were from medical universities. Medical students (MS) (88.50%) and non-medical students (nMS) (66.66%) reported having heard of PCOS. MS (27.58%) and nMS (25.28%) were aware that PCOS could alter their voice. MS (87.35%) and nMS (68.96%) were aware that PCOS might cause irregular or no menstrual cycles. MS (75.66%) and nMS (60.91%) were aware that PCOS might cause mood fluctuations.

Conclusion: The level of awareness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) among non-medical students (nMS) in this study was significantly lower compared to their counterparts. This suggests an urgent need to enhance awareness of PCOS, given its significant health burden. Implementing awareness programs and incorporating PCOS and related disorders as essential topics in academic curricula, irrespective of the educational program, will facilitate early diagnosis and improved disease management.