Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD), also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a pervasive endocrine disorder that profoundly affects women of reproductive age. Characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and the presence of multiple ovarian cysts, PCOD is not merely a reproductive concern but a multifaceted condition that can lead to serious health complications. These include infertility, obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. The impact of PCOD extends beyond physical health, often contributing to psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and diminished self-esteem.1,2

In India, the prevalence of PCOD is on the rise, particularly among young women. This surge can be attributed to a complex interplay of genetic factors, lifestyle changes, and environmental influences. Despite its growing incidence, awareness and understanding of PCOD remain alarmingly low, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. Limited access to healthcare services and accurate information in these regions exacerbates the problem, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Consequently, many women suffer from the long-term consequences of the disorder, which could have been mitigated with timely intervention.3-5

District Kullu in Himachal Pradesh offers a distinctive context for examining PCOD awareness due to its unique blend of rural traditions and emerging modernity. The region's cultural beliefs, especially regarding menstruation and fertility, often perpetuate myths and misconceptions about PCOD. These cultural barriers, combined with geographic isolation and limited healthcare infrastructure, create significant obstacles to effective diagnosis and management of the condition.

Given these challenges, assessing the current levels of awareness and knowledge of PCOD among women in District Kullu is critical. This study aims to fill that gap by providing a detailed understanding of the awareness and knowledge levels regarding PCOD. The findings will inform public health strategies that are culturally sensitive and tailored to the unique needs of the community. Ultimately, this research seeks to empower women with the knowledge and resources necessary to manage their reproductive health effectively, thereby reducing the burden of PCOD on both individuals and the broader healthcare system in this region.

Research Approach: 

A descriptive, cross-sectional survey design was adopted to assess the awareness and knowledge of PCOD among adults in District Kullu, Himachal Pradesh.

Study Area: The study was conducted in District Kullu, a rural and semi-urban region in Himachal Pradesh, India. The district is characterized by a diverse demographic composition, blending traditional agricultural practices with modern occupations.

Study Duration: The study was carried out over a five-month period, from January to May 2024.

Study Population: The target population for this study included women aged 18 years and above who had been residents of District Kullu for at least 12 months. This criterion ensured that participants had sufficient familiarity with local healthcare services and community health practices.

Sample Size: A sample size of 400 participants was determined using a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error. This sample size was selected to provide a representative assessment of the general population's awareness of PCOD.

Study Tool: Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which was divided into two main sections:

1. Socio-Demographic Information: This section gathered data on participants' age, education level, employment status, marital status, and other relevant demographic details.

2. Knowledge and Awareness Questions: The questionnaire contained 20 structured questions designed to assess participants' knowledge about PCOD, including symptoms, risk factors, prevention, and management strategies. Each correct answer was awarded one mark, with the total score ranging from 0 to 20.

The questionnaire was pre-tested on a small group of participants to ensure clarity and ease of understanding. Minor adjustments were made based on the feedback to improve the wording of the questions.

Data Collection: Data collection was conducted through an online survey using platforms like Google Forms. The questionnaire link was distributed via email and social media platforms, including WhatsApp groups, Facebook, and Instagram. The survey remained open until 400 complete responses were collected. Participants were informed about the study's purpose, and their consent was obtained before participation.

Data Analysis: The collected data were entered into Microsoft Excel for cleaning and error checking. Statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info V7 software, with results expressed in terms of frequencies and percentages to summarize the socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge levels of the participants.

Ethical Considerations: The study adhered to ethical guidelines, ensuring confidentiality and anonymity for all participants. Participation was voluntary, and informed consent was obtained from each respondent. The study was conducted under the supervision of the relevant health authorities in District Kullu.

The study, conducted among 400 women from District Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, aimed to assess the awareness and knowledge levels regarding Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD). The results are summarized in the following tables, with detailed explanations for each.

Table 1: Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Study Participants (N=400)

The socio-demographic data indicate that the majority of participants (28.0%) were in the 18-25 age group, followed by 26.0% in the 26-35 age group. The education levels varied, with 33.5% being graduates and 32.0% having completed high school. Employment status showed that 47.3% of participants were employed, while 31.5% were students. Additionally, 54.5% of the participants were married.

Table 2: Awareness and Knowledge of PCOD Symptoms (N=400)

The results indicate that 75.3% of participants had heard of PCOD. However, knowledge about specific symptoms varied. While 68.0% recognized irregular periods as a symptom, fewer were aware of excessive hair growth (59.8%) and acne (62.0%) as possible symptoms of PCOD. Knowledge of weight gain as a symptom was recognized by 65.3% of participants.

Table 3: Knowledge of Risk Factors for PCOD (N=400)

Knowledge of risk factors for PCOD is relatively high, with 69.5% of participants recognizing obesity as a significant risk factor. Awareness of other factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle (64.3%) and an unhealthy diet (66.0%), was also strong. However, fewer participants were aware of the role of family history (57.8%) and stress (60.8%) in contributing to PCOD.

Table 4: Knowledge Regarding Prevention of PCOD (N=400)

The results show moderate knowledge regarding PCOD prevention. While 66.5% of participants knew that regular exercise could help prevent PCOD, fewer recognized the importance of managing stress (58.5%) and maintaining regular medical check-ups (59.8%). Knowledge about the role of a healthy diet (63.0%) and weight management (67.0%) in preventing PCOD was also noted.

Table 5: Knowledge Regarding Management of PCOD (N=400)

Knowledge regarding the management of PCOD is relatively strong, with 65.8% of participants aware that medication can help manage symptoms. Awareness of the importance of lifestyle changes (61.8%) and regular monitoring of symptoms (58.8%) was also noted. However, fewer participants were aware of the potential need for hormonal therapy (55.5%) and the importance of support from healthcare professionals (60.3%).

Table 6: Overall, Knowledge Score Categories for PCOD (N=400)

The overall knowledge scores reveal that 26.8% of participants demonstrated very good knowledge (16-20 correct answers), while 29.8% had good knowledge (12-15 correct answers). A significant portion (27.0%) had fair knowledge (8-11 correct answers), and 16.5% fell into the poor knowledge category (below 8 correct answers). These results suggest that while a substantial portion of the population has a strong understanding of PCOD, there remains a need for targeted educational interventions to improve awareness and knowledge among those with lower scores.

The results of this study demonstrate that while there is a strong foundation of general awareness regarding PCOD among the population of District Kullu, significant knowledge gaps remain, particularly in understanding specific symptoms, risk factors, prevention, and management strategies. The variability in overall knowledge scores suggests the need for tailored public health initiatives to address these gaps, ensuring that all segments of the population are equipped to prevent, detect, and manage PCOD effectively.

The findings from this study highlight both strengths and gaps in the awareness and knowledge of Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD) among women in District Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. While a significant portion of the population has heard of PCOD, with 75.3% of participants aware of the condition, there is a clear need for more in-depth education on specific symptoms, risk factors, and management strategies. Awareness of symptoms like irregular periods, excessive hair growth, and acne is moderate but not universal, indicating that many women may not recognize the full range of signs that could indicate PCOD. This gap in symptom recognition could lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, ultimately worsening the condition's impact on women's health.^6-8

One of the most striking findings is the variability in knowledge about the risk factors associated with PCOD. While obesity is recognized by 69.5% of participants as a significant risk factor, other critical factors like a sedentary lifestyle, family history, and stress are less well-known. This suggests that public health efforts need to focus not just on raising general awareness of PCOD but on educating women about the specific lifestyle and genetic factors that can contribute to the development of the condition. By empowering women with this knowledge, they can take proactive steps to reduce their risk, such as adopting healthier lifestyle habits and seeking regular medical check-ups.^9,10

The study also reveals moderate awareness of preventive measures for PCOD, with 66.5% of participants recognizing the importance of regular exercise and 63.0% understanding the role of a healthy diet. However, fewer participants were aware of the importance of managing stress (58.5%) and maintaining social connections (59.0%) in preventing PCOD. These findings highlight the need for a more holistic approach to public health education that goes beyond diet and exercise to include mental and emotional well-being. Stress management and social support are crucial components of preventing and managing PCOD, and these aspects should be emphasized in educational campaigns.^11,12

When it comes to managing PCOD, the study shows that while many women understand the role of medication and lifestyle changes, there is less awareness of other critical management strategies, such as regular monitoring of symptoms and the potential need for hormonal therapy. This gap in knowledge could lead to suboptimal management of the condition, with women potentially missing out on important treatments that could improve their quality of life. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of support from healthcare professionals, with 60.3% of participants recognizing this need. 

This highlights the role that doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers play in educating and supporting women with PCOD.^10-12

Another important aspect that emerged from the study is the variability in overall knowledge scores. While a significant portion of participants demonstrated very good or good knowledge of PCOD, a substantial number fell into the fair and poor categories. This suggests that while some women in District Kullu are well-informed, others lack the basic knowledge necessary to effectively prevent, detect, and manage PCOD. Tailored educational interventions, such as community workshops, informational materials, and outreach programs, are essential to bridge this knowledge gap and ensure that all women, regardless of their education or employment status, have access to the information they need.^7-9

Cultural factors and misconceptions about menstruation and fertility may also contribute to the gaps in knowledge observed in this study. In rural and semi-urban regions like District Kullu, traditional beliefs and limited exposure to modern healthcare practices can hinder women from seeking timely medical advice and adopting preventive measures. Public health initiatives must be culturally sensitive and address these misconceptions directly, fostering an environment where women feel empowered to take control of their reproductive health.^10-12

In conclusion, while there is a basic level of awareness about Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD) among women in District Kullu, substantial gaps remain in their understanding of the condition's symptoms, risk factors, and effective prevention and management practices. These knowledge deficiencies underscore the need for focused and culturally appropriate public health interventions that not only increase awareness but also provide women with practical tools and information to better manage their reproductive health. By bridging these knowledge gaps and promoting a comprehensive approach to PCOD, including lifestyle adjustments, stress management, and regular healthcare monitoring, we can facilitate earlier diagnosis, improve treatment outcomes, and alleviate the overall impact of PCOD on individuals, families, and the healthcare system in this region.

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