Abstract

EMPOWERING MINDS, PREVENTING PCOS: THE ATTITUDE KNOWLEDGE NEXUS

Vidya Bhargav*, Sneha Gupta*, Noel David Jose and Alwin Anto

ABSTRACT

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) stands as the most prevalent endocrine abnormality affecting females during their reproductive age, exerting a significant impact on various aspects of their bodies. Infertility is one of its leading consequences, arising from the development of fluid-filled cysts within the ovaries, which disrupt the normal ovulation process. Beyond merely disrupting the monthly menstrual cycles, PCOS can lead to severe complications, including diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disorders, and infertility. Early symptoms include amenorrhea, hirsutism, acanthosis nigricans (hyperpigmentation around the chin), weight gain, acne, skin breakouts, hair loss in the backward direction, difficulty sleeping, and insulin resistance. Methodology: The study was designed as a prospective observational investigation, conducted over a 6-month period at various pharmacy and nursing colleges serving as the study sites. A sample size of 400 participants was estimated, and data collection was facilitated through carefully designed data collection forms. Results: The questionnaire was completed by 405 participants, with 94.1% (381 participants) falling within the age category of 18-25 years, 3.5% (14 participants) belonging to the 25-35 age group, and 1.5% (7 participants) being below 18 years old. Astonishingly, 37.5% of the participants displayed a lack of awareness regarding the condition of PCOS. Out of the 405 responses, 75.1% (305 participants) reported experiencing abnormal menstrual cycles, while 24.7% (100 participants) indicated having normal menses. Participants reported a range of symptoms, with weight gain (46%), bloating (8.6%), hair fall (39.2%), acne (25%), and others (7.8%) being prevalent. Notably, 36.6% of participants mentioned none of the listed symptoms. Furthermore, 22% of the participants expressed reluctance to take medications for managing abnormal conditions. Surprisingly, 40% of the total population exhibited a lack of awareness about insulin resistance. Among those experiencing insulin resistance symptoms, darkening of the neck and armpits (15.7%), sweet cravings (11.7%), increased abdominal girth (7%), and male pattern hair loss (2%) were commonly reported. Moreover, 34.5% of participants displayed hesitance in consulting a physician despite experiencing symptoms. Strikingly, 69% exhibited a lack of awareness about hyperandrogenism. Conclusion: This study provides significant insights into the awareness, symptoms, and willingness to seek medical assistance among participants concerning PCOS, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism. The findings underscore the need for enhanced education and early intervention strategies to address these conditions effectively.

Keywords: Polycystic ovarian syndrome, Insulin resistance, Hyperandrogenism, Infertility, Amenorrhea, Menorrhagia, Hirusitism, Acanthosis nigrans.