Silent Threats: Evaluating Knowledge of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Among Reproductive-Age Women in District Kangra
Background: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a significant public health concern among reproductive-age women, contributing to severe complications such as infertility, ectopic pregnancies, and chronic pelvic pain. Despite its prevalence, awareness and knowledge about PID, its risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures remain inadequate, particularly in rural regions. District Kangra, characterized by its socio-cultural and economic diversity, offers a unique context for understanding public awareness of PID and identifying barriers to healthcare access.Material and Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, over three months from July to September 2024. A sample of 400 reproductive-age women (18–45 years) was selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a pre-validated structured questionnaire divided into two sections: socio-demographic information and PID knowledge assessment. The questionnaire included 20 multiple-choice questions addressing PID symptoms, risk factors, complications, prevention, and barriers to care. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to identify associations between socio-demographic variables and knowledge levels.Results: The study revealed that 78% of participants identified PID as an infection of the reproductive organs, while 71% recognized pelvic pain as a key symptom. Awareness of complications such as infertility and ectopic pregnancy was strong (80% and 76%, respectively). However, gaps were noted in understanding preventive measures and risk factors, with 63% failing to identify that age alone is not a significant risk factor. Socio-cultural and financial barriers were reported by 73% and 67% of participants, respectively. Knowledge scores were classified as very good (27%), good (38%), fair (24%), and poor (11%), highlighting significant variations in awareness levels. Rural residents and participants with lower educational attainment demonstrated poorer knowledge levels, emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions.Conclusion: This study underscores the urgent need for community-centered interventions to enhance PID awareness, focusing on addressing misconceptions and socio-cultural barriers. Integrating PID education into reproductive health programs, providing financial and logistical support for screenings, and leveraging community health workers can significantly improve knowledge and health outcomes. The findings serve as a foundation for designing scalable public health initiatives tailored to rural settings like Kangra.