Understanding of a Veiled Illness: Evaluation of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome awareness (PCOS) in Young Female Students of Karachi.

Abstract

Introduction: PCOS is a major endocrinological syndrome that affects females and impairs hormonal stability thus having an impact on the normal functioning of some body systems. This has affected 6-20% of the female population of reproductive age and hence its diagnosis is important. Methods: This is a retrospective cross-sectional observational study. A total of 151 females were enrolled; after signing an informed consent form, females were asked a few questions about their general health, comorbidities, and generalized menstruation history. The last part of the questionnaire contains common signs and symptoms of polycystic ovarian disease to assess awareness. The data was analyzed in the statistical package of social sciences (SPSS) version 2021.Result: The participants were asked about 7 signs of PCOS. 9.3% (n=14) were facing irregular periods, heavy bleeding was experienced by 16.6% (n=25) participants. Facial hair growth has occurred in 13.2% (n=20) of participants. 15.2% (n=23) had oily scalp and dandruff. Participants were also asked if they were aware of some major risk factors of PCOS. 15.9% (n=24) knew that PCOS can cause infertility, and 7.3% (n=11) said PCOS causes Anovulatory cycles. 41.7% knew that lifestyle modification can help reduce adverse effects of the syndrome. Conclusion: the majority of study participants indicated decreased awareness of PCOS and its major risk factors, Hence there is a dire need for awareness as it is rather ignored.