srjcmsSRJCMSSRJCMS2788-885110.47310/srjcms.2025.v05i01.017Double Lives: A Study on Awareness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Among Young Women in Himachal PradeshBackground: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age, marked by hormonal imbalance, irregular menstruation, metabolic disturbances, and psychological challenges. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness regarding PCOS, focusing on symptom recognition, understanding of hormonal imbalances, and knowledge of lifestyle interventions among young women in Himachal Pradesh. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, online survey-based study was conducted from January to March 2025 among 420 women aged 18–30 years residing in various districts of Himachal Pradesh. Participants completed a structured, bilingual (Hindi and English) questionnaire distributed via social media platforms and institutional networks. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic profiles, PCOS awareness, misconceptions, and sources of information. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 26.0, employing descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations). Knowledge scores were categorized as Very Good, Good, Fair, or Poor. Results: Among the respondents, 41.7% were aged 18–22 years, and 48.8% held undergraduate degrees. Students comprised 50% of the participants, and 43.3% resided in urban areas. Awareness about key PCOS symptoms was encouraging: 82.1% identified it as an endocrine disorder, and 85.0% recognized skipped periods as a symptom. Lifestyle interventions were acknowledged as effective management strategies by 83.1%, and 86.2% supported specialist consultation for diagnosis. However, knowledge gaps persisted, with only 64.8% knowing that ovarian cysts are not mandatory for diagnosis and 62.1% aware of the associated cardiovascular risks. Overall, 25.7% exhibited Very Good awareness, 49.0% demonstrated Good awareness, 18.6% had Fair knowledge, and 6.7% displayed Poor awareness. Conclusion: Although emerging trends indicate an improving awareness of PCOS among young women in Himachal Pradesh, significant gaps and misconceptions remain, especially regarding disease reversibility, cardiovascular risks, and diagnostic criteria. There is an urgent need for structured, culturally sensitive health education initiatives to bridge these knowledge gaps, enhance early diagnosis, and promote proactive lifestyle management.